Motoring expert warns of FIVE mistakes that could cost drivers up to €6,000 in European fines

The Motor Ombudsman alerts drivers to help avoid critical oversights as thousands head across the Channel for their summer getaway

Motoring expert warns of FIVE mistakes that could cost drivers up to €6,000 in European fines

As UK families prepare for European road trips this summer, new research reveals that simple preparation mistakes and misinformation could result in fines of up to €6,000, or even vehicle confiscation, if the letter of the law isn’t followed. 

A study of 1,001 UK drivers by The Motor Ombudsman found alarming gaps in knowledge that could turn summer holidays into expensive nightmares, with many unaware of basic legal requirements across Europe. 

To help Brits have a holiday that’s memorable for all the right reasons, Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman at The Motor Ombudsman, shares the organisation’s tips for driving safely in Europe this summer. 

The costly mistakes to avoid 

  1. Sat-nav apps with speed camera alerts and radar jamming devices 

70% of drivers don’t realise that sat-nav speed camera alerts and radar jamming devices are illegal in countries including Spain and France, risking €6,000 fines or vehicle confiscation respectively. 

  • Missing emergency kit 

According to the research, nearly 60% are unaware that they are required to carry certain emergency equipment when driving. High-vis jackets and warning triangles are mandatory in most European countries, with fines up to €750 in France for missing equipment. 

  • Wrong vehicle sticker 

Many drivers still have old GB stickers, but only UK identifiers are now accepted. Check the rules carefully – in most countries, a numberplate identifier is sufficient; in Spain, you need a UK sticker regardless of what’s on your numberplate.  

  • Low emission zone stickers 

70% of drivers don’t know that cities like Paris, Berlin and Brussels require pre-purchased windscreen stickers to drive in low emission zones. Failure to comply could mean a fine of up to €135. The stickers can take time to arrive, so ensure you order one well in advance 

  • Conversion confusion 

European petrol stations use different terminology and measure tyre pressure in BAR not PSI, catching out unprepared drivers. Take a moment to make sure you’re using the correct fuel for your car, especially if it’s not a vehicle you drive regularly. If you need to top up your tyres, check that you know the correct tyre pressure. Don’t rush into a costly mistake.  

The research also revealed a north-south divide in confidence when heading across the Channel. In fact, 55% of drivers in Scotland feel unprepared for European roads, whereas, in contrast, 79% of Londoners feel confident about driving on the continent. Among young drivers, 67% of those heading to Europe will be driving on the right for the first time, with one in three admitting they don’t feel ready. 

“Our research shows many drivers are setting off unprepared,” warns Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman at The Motor Ombudsman. “From speed limits to mandatory equipment, ignoring the details can quickly turn a relaxing break into an expensive headache.” 

Will from Leeds learned the hard way: “I forgot to display the correct low emission zone sticker when driving through a city and received a fine shortly after – a mistake that could have been avoided with better preparation.” 

To help Brits stay safe and avoid unnecessary costs, The Motor Ombudsman has launched Drive Europe – a free online hub packed with expert advice for anyone planning to take their own car abroad. 

Have your say!

0 0

Lost Password

Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.