Almost every corner of the world can be discovered by car, but if you’re planning a road trip anytime soon make sure you’re up on the rules and regulations of the country you are visiting – as some are really quite different to those in the UK.
Car insurer Aviva has scoured the globe for the most unusual and eccentric, and we have featured the top eight right here:
1. Keep your headlights on in Norway
Because of the risk of fog and snow, it’s compulsory to drive with dipped headlights in Norway 24 hours a day, even in summer. This, of course, includes all motored vehicles, even mopeds. If you get arrested, police have the power to issue on-the-spot fines from £70 to £730, as they deem appropriate.
2. Carry two pairs of glasses in Spain
No matter your prescription, the authorities in Spain want you to carry a spare pair of glasses in your car. Break the law and you will have to deal with the Español police. Be reassured though – policemen are often lenient with tourists when it comes to spare glasses.
3. Never stop on the German motorway
Running out of petrol in Germany? Too bad, say the authorities, as it’s illegal to stop. It’s recommended to drive at 130 km-per-hour (80mph) on the Autobahn, the German motorway, but stop and you could face a £50 fine and two points on your license.
4. No drinking water while driving in Cyprus
Drinking and driving is prohibited in Cyprus, even water. Eating food behind the wheel is also forbidden. We advise you to pull over if you get peckish or you could face a £60 penalty.
5. Clean your car in Russia
Driving in Russia quite literally takes a spot of elbow grease if you are to keep on the right side of the law. Here it’s a legal requirement to keep your vehicle spick and span or you could have your license confiscated. Keep your car waxed and polished, we say.
6. Don’t honk your horn in Finland
Unlike in Latin European countries, honking in Finland only means you’re in danger. But honk unnecessarily and you will face a £16 fine.
7. Don’t ride with a drunk driver in Japan
Keep a keen eye on the nominated driver if traveling by car in Japan where passengers can be prosecuted where a driver is found to be drunk behind the wheel.
8. Disable your Sat Nav speed camera alerts in France
French authorities have prohibited the use of devices capable of detecting speed camera alerts. If the police in France catch you, they can confiscate your license and impound your car.