Government issues tips on towing a caravan abroad

THE Government has issued a warning to caravanners over the potential perils of driving abroad.

In its ‘steer clear’ road safety campaign it suggests that more than two-thirds of Britons aged over 55 have run into problems while motoring overseas.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) research found that crime can be a real issue, with a growing number of British motorists, particularly those towing caravans, being targeted by ‘highway pirates’ and losing their valuables in a ‘motorway mugging’. 

Other incidents are more common driving errors such as driving on the wrong side of the road or getting badly lost.
It also found that more than half of those who drive their own car abroad don’t take their driving licence and car registration documents and nearly two thirds don’t carry details of their breakdown policy. 

Almost three quarters of over 55s wouldn’t be prepared in an emergency as they don’t carry telephone numbers for local emergency services, breakdown services or the local British Consulate.

Tips and advice on driving and road safety abroad and travel advice country by country can be found on the FCO’s website by clicking here.

Alternatively, call its travel advice hotline on 0845 850 2829

* The Government has issued the following series if tips to towers abroad:

Before you go:

Familiarise yourself with the driving laws of your holiday destination, including the local speed limits and which side of the road to drive on!

You will be subject to these laws when driving abroad and if you are stopped by the police it is not an excuse to say that you were unaware of them. 

Consult your insurance company to check that you are fully covered to drive abroad and for any medical expenses that could result from an accident.

Check you are covered for breakdown. You should buy a separate breakdown policy with your holiday insurance or from your motor insurer.

Some countries require you to have a Green Card, which provides the minimum insurance necessary in that country. Check whether your holiday destination requires you to have one

Check whether your holiday destination requires you to obtain an International Driving Permit

Service your car before leaving the UK and check that it complies with the vehicle requirements of the countries you will visit.

Plan your route thoroughly before you leave and make sure you have maps of your journey.

Pack an emergency kit for your car including basic first aid equipment
 
When you’re away:

Carry your registration documents, driving licence, passport, insurance documents, breakdown policy and a Green Card if required at all times when driving.

Make sure you have all relevant emergency helpline numbers on you, including emergency services, breakdown assistance and insurance company.

If you are involved in an accident you should contact your insurer immediately and take photographs of any damage to your vehicle.

Drive defensively – expect the unexpected.

Do not drive when you are tired and take regular breaks at service stations or designated stopping points while you are on the road
     
Always wear a seatbelt and ensure that all passengers wear theirs too.

Do not drink and drive.  Be aware that the alcohol limit may be lower abroad than in the UK and in some countries there is zero tolerance for drink driving.

Never use your mobile phone while driving.

Do not overload your vehicle or caravan.

Be aware that the local style of driving may be different to that in the UK.  Always give the car in front of you plenty of room.
 
Have a clearly visible GB sticker on the back of your car if your number plate does not include this information.

You should use a set of headlamp converters when driving on the right-hand side of the road.

You should carry a warning triangle, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, tool kit and spare bulbs in the boot of your car.

 
 
 

 

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