If there’s one thing most people take away from traveling experiences, it’s a certain wonderment at just how many differences there are in this world. Unfortunately, sometimes those differences mean that you will be leaving other countries with something more than fond memories: driving tickets. If there is one really, really good way to ruin a trip, it is getting traffic fines abroad. I had to learn the hard way that not all driving laws are the same, and they actually vary an incredible amount from country to country.
Did You Know . . .
- In France, you have to reduce your speed by 20kph during wet weather.
- In Spain, those who need glasses to operate a vehicle are required to keep two pairs with them while driving.
- In Italy, you’ll be leaving with a ticket if you honk excessively in a built-up area.
Needless to say, I had never heard of any of these laws before I generated my fair share of traffic fines abroad. Let me tell you, getting a ticket while abroad is not a fun experience. It’s not fun for you, who will have little to no idea why you’re being pulled over. It’s not fun for the cops, who have been pulling disgruntled tourists over all day. And lastly, it won’t be fun for your girlfriend (as I’ve also learned the hard way), who will be wondering why she even bothered to come along.
If you need a crash course in the differences of traffic fines abroad check out this site
. It’s got some amazing tips that could save you a lot of trouble while traveling, and a cool little graph that details just how many differences there are between the driving laws of various countries. So do yourself a favor and check it out before the only things you’ll be bringing home from your vacation are driving tickets.