BRITS ABROAD BEHIND THE WHEEL

Halfords sorts fact from fiction on European roads ahead of the summer getaway

With millions of families predicted to drive over to the continent this summer, Halfords is advising drivers to plan ahead and pack some glove box essentials to ensure they don't get caught out by variations in the motoring laws between countries.

If driving abroad for the first time, Halfords can supply all of the essentials in one handy bag. The Halfords Motoring Abroad Kit includes a warning triangle, first aid kit, headlamp beam adapters, GB sticker and high-vis waistcoat, all for just £20 (usual price, £29.99).

However, even if used to driving on the continent, motorists may need to replace frequently used items. For example, a Halfords Essentials Compact First Aid Kit (currently half price at £5) means motorists can be of more assistance should they need to stop at the scene of an accident to help – something The Good Samaritan law means every driver must do.

Dave Poulter, Halfords Auto Category Director said, “Unfamiliar road signs, lack of local knowledge and driving on the opposite side of the road can all lead to a disconcerting driving experience on the continent.

“Being prepared and knowing the local laws means families can drive with confidence and avoid unnecessary fines and hassle.”

Halfords guide to motoring safely abroad;

         Spain

• Glasses wearers are required to carry a spare pair in the car

• Motorists should disable the speed camera detector on their SatNavs before setting off as speed camera detectors are banned

• Etiquette dictates a flash of the lights before overtaking

• In some cities, cars parking on one way streets are required to park on the side of the road with even numbers on even days of the month; and on odd days, the side with odd numbers

  Portugal

• It’s illegal to run out of fuel on Lisbon’s 25 de Abril bridge – make sure you top up

• Indicators are rarely used in Portugal, so take extra care on motorways, dual carriage ways, and when driving alongside parked cars

• Some motorways operate auto-tolls. You can buy pre-paid passes from most post offices or you can hire an electronic toll device that charges your credit card when you pass a toll

• Don’t forget to turn off speed camera alerts on your SatNav

  France

• It’s compulsory to carry an NF certified breathalyser in the car

• It is illegal to overtake a tram when passengers are alighting

• Most traffic lights go straight from green to red with no amber

• Children under 10 aren’t allowed to travel in the front seat without a special restraint

• Don’t forget to turn off speed camera alerts on your SatNav

  Italy

• In cities you must park on the same side of the road that you are driving on

• Once you commit to a decision stick to it – Italians manoeuvre quickly so hesitation can lead to an accident

• Don’t forget to turn off speed camera alerts on your SatNav

  Germany

• There is no speed limit on motorways unless visibility is less than 50 meters or it’s snowing, when it becomes 50km/h

• It’s illegal to drive while wearing headphones

• Tyres need to be changed to suit the season, it’s illegal to use summer tyres during winter months

• Traffic coming from the right has priority at junctions and crossroads

• In traffic jams cars feed in one at a time from alternating directions – so look both ways

  -ENDS-

For further information please contact Halfords@z-pr.com or 020 7896 3404

The Halfords Group is the UK's leading retailer of automotive, leisure and cycling products and through Halfords Autocentres also one of the UK's leading independent car servicing and repair operator.

Halfords customers shop at 467 stores in the UK and Republic of Ireland and at halfords.com for pick-up at their local store or direct home delivery. Halfords Autocentres operates from around 290 sites nationally and offers motorists dealership-quality MOTs, repairs and car servicing at affordable prices. Halfords employs approximately 12,000 colleagues and sells around 10,000 product lines in stores, increasing to around 30,000 lines online. The product offering encompasses significant ranges in car parts, cycles, in-car technology, child seats, roof boxes, outdoor leisure and camping equipment.

Halfords own brands include Apollo and Carrera cycles, augmented by exclusive UK distribution rights for the premium-ranged Boardman cycles and accessories and the retro-inspired Pendleton designs from Olympic champion Victoria Pendleton which combine classic lines with modern practicality.

New ranges are launching across the Carrera, Mongoose, Boardman and Raleigh brands with exclusive lines ahead of the Tour de France this summer.

In outdoor leisure, we sell a premium range of camping equipment including brands such as Outwell. Halfords offers customers expert advice and a fitting service called "wefit" for car parts, child seats, satellite navigation and in-car entertainment systems, and a "werepair" service for cycles.

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