Most of us will be hoping that the driving chaos caused by the recent snow is far behind us. Few will have been unaffected by that slippery white stuff, even if it just meant having to dig your car out of a gigantic snow drift. But with luck the worst of this winter’s driving conditions will remain in the distant annals of December and we can think about planning our summer. The road trip isn’t something we all necessarily find alluring, but many of us will nevertheless be packing our tents, topping up our short term European cover, and heading for the European mainland this summer, in search of the open road.
Of course, embarking on a trip to visit one of our European neighbours is exciting in many ways – not least because the traffic behaves so differently. There is the obvious difference – that in the majority of countries, they all drive on the wrong side of the road – something that no amount of swearing will change. Once we get over the shock of driving on the right, though, there are the variations in speed limits, funny looking traffic signs and drivers that seem to have their hands permanently attached to their car horns.
But after a couple of days, you get into the swing of things. Whether you’re thinking about driving down to the south of France or exploring the winding country roads of Italy, whether you’re toying with the idea of flooring it down the Autobahn or venturing onto the mean streets of Rome, just make sure you’ve got your short term European cover up to date. Also, the law varies from country to country, you should therefore check before you enter the country and be prepared for any situation. For example, it is now compulsory in Austria, Belgium, France, Italy, Norway, Portugal and Spain to carry visibility vests. Finally, remember to drive on the correct side of the road, there’s nothing more scary than starting up your engine whilst on holiday and driving off, only to wonder why a 20 tonne lorry is hurtling towards you. Have a great holiday!
Breakdown Cover from 
