Practical Advice to Avoid Legal Issues When Driving Abroad

When driving abroad, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific traffic regulations of each country. Road signs may vary, as well as rules and priorities on the road. Make sure to research and understand these differences before you start your journey. This will help you avoid legal violations and drive safely.

A key point is to respect the speed limits established in each country. Some places may have lower or higher limits than you are used to. Pay attention to the speed signs and obey them at all times. Remember, road safety should always be a priority when driving, especially abroad.

Maximum Speed Limits in Europe:

In general, the maximum speed limits on roads and motorways in Europe vary between 90 km/h and 130 km/h, depending on the country. Nearby countries, such as Spain, Portugal and Belgium, share a limit of 120 km/h. However, in France, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Greece and Luxembourg, limits reach 130 km/h. If you are heading to Estonia, keep in mind that the speed limit is 90 km/h.
For those who enjoy speed, it's well know that in Germany, some sections of the famous Autobahn have no recommended speed limits.

 

Maximum Speed Limits in North Africa:

When discussing driving in nearby foreign countries, we cannot forget Morocco, Algeria or even Tunisia. In these countries, the maximum speed limit on roads can vary between 60 km/h and 120 km/h, depending on the type of road and location. In Tangier, the maximum speed limit in urban areas is 40 km/h, similar to Spain.
We advise you to pay close attention to speed limit signals.

Where to Park Abroad

When it comes to parking, each country may have its own rules and regulations, and this can be quite complex. Always try to find accommodation with parking facilities; otherwise, research in advance where and how you can park your car safely and legally.
Some places, particularly in the centres, may require the use of parking meters or parking regulation applications, while others may have restricted parking areas. Be informed to avoid your car being immobilised or receiving unnecessary fines. Remember to follow the rules wherever you go.

Unusual Road Signs Abroad:

In France, you may find signs indicating priority at roundabouts. Unlike in Andorra or Spain, where the rule generally gives priority to drivers already inside the roundabout, in France, drivers entering the roundabout often have the priority.

In countries or high mountain areas, as well as in Andorra, you may come come across signs indicating the proximity of mountain passes or roads with more challenging driving conditions due to mountain topography. These signals will alert you to the presence of sharp bends, steep slopes or adverse weather conditions.

In Gibraltar, for example, due to its status as a British Overseas Territory,driving is on the left, similar to the United Kingdom. Therefore, you will find traffic signs and markings adapted to this style of driving.

Vehicle Documentation:

One of the most important things is vehicle insurance. Before travelling abroad, check if your current insurance policy covers driving in other countries. When driving your car abroad, as long as it is within the European Economic area (EEA), i.e. the EU plus Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway, as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, you can use your Andorran insurance.

If your destination is elsewhere, ask your insurance company for the International Motor Insurance Certificate (IMIC) or Green Card. However, be aware! They are not obliged to provide it, but if they do give you the IMIC, remember that you must carry a printed copy. Even if you receive a PDF, it is not legal to show it in digital format (this will change soon, but until 2025, a printed copy is still required).

Have they not provided the certificate? Consider getting insurance at the border of your destination country, hence the term 'Frontier Insurance'.

In addition to the above, carry other relevant documents with you, such as your driving license, vehicle registration certificate and car registration. This will be useful in case of any eventuality or police check.

What Happens If I Have an Accident While Driving Abroad?

Before answering this question, it is very important to understand that coverages are not the same in all countries. Any insurance mentioned earlier –whether the International Motor Insurance Certificate, Frontier Insurance or your Andorran insurance abroad– will only cover third-party damages. Any additional coverage you might have in your current insurance policy will not be included.  The best option is to check with your insurance company.

In the event of an accident involving another vehicle while driving abroad, the first step is to contact your insurance company's roadside assistance. Then, for the claim process, also contact your insurance company or visit our website for guidance on the necessary steps: Traffic Accidents with a Foreign Vehicle.

It should be noted that there are significant differences between countries regarding the financial coverages for third-party vehicle insurance. You can check the table with mandatory insurance coverages by country and also refer to the 'Council of Bureaux' website.

Currently, if Andorran insurance companies or foreign branches operating in our market cover accidents in a country of the International Insurance System (Green Card System), our 'third party insurance' will always reach the highest coverage. For example, if an Andorran vehicle causes an accident in France resulting in personal damages amounting to €100 million, even if this exceeds the coverage offered by an Andorran third-party insurance (€50 million) if the accident had been caused in Andorra, the Andorran insurer will cover the costs. Granting unlimited coverage exclusively in those countries within the Green Card System whose legislation requires unlimited compulsory insurance.

Summarizing, driving abroad requires caution and preparation. Make sure to research and understand traffic regulations, speed limits and parking rules in the countries you plan to visit. Don't forget to get the right insurance and always carry the necessary documents with you. Enjoy your journey while driving safely and responsibly!