Poles do not shy away from foreign car trips. They often result from saving compared to, for example, air transport prices. Regardless of the reason for the decision to travel by own car to other countries, you should prepare yourself accordingly. Second movement rules in other countries usually differ from those in force in Poland.
Although the issues of equipping a car traveling on European roads are set out in the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, in many countries, there is no shortage of different legal tools.
What to pay attention to before traveling abroad by car?
A national driving license is sufficient for traveling around Europe. The obligation to have an international driving license is min. In Mexico, Brazil or the United Arab Emirates. The issue of car documents and insurance looks different. Regardless of the direction of travel, you must take your registration document and proof of the OC policy with you. In addition, in the case of trips to countries outside the European Union, it is necessary to have an international insurance certificate. Colloquially, it is referred to as a “green card”.
Another important issue during the preparation for a foreign trip is checking traffic regulations with particular emphasis on all restrictions. It is worth paying attention to:
Speed limits on particular types of roads.
Regulations regarding the possession of a reflective vest with reflective tape for the driver and passengers.
Procedure for dealing with roadside checks.
Rules on the obligation to ride on winter tires (in winter).
How should a car be equipped for a foreign trip?
Thanks to the provision of the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, it is enough that the car will be equipped with reflective materials that are required by national law. If the driver has everything he needs to drive in Poland, it is also sufficient for trips to other European countries.
At the same time, it should be noted that even the reflective vest is not considered as a car’s equipment and its possession is required in many countries. For your peace of mind, it is worth having not only a vest but also spare bulbs and fuses that can be useful in case of problems with the car.
As for the specific requirements for mandatory car equipment in the countries concerned, such data are published by the European Commission.