Travel Tips: Learn Foreign Road Rules Before You Go
Driving in L.A. or on the Autobahn may not scare you, but driving in a country where traffic-related deaths are much higher than at home might. Here are some things to think about before you get behind the wheel in England, Italy, Thailand or wherever.
Don't they know who you are? Not likely.
Even if you're a celebrity, if you get stopped by a police officer, they will demand to see your U.S. license and something called an "International Driving Permit" (IDP). To avoid a messy situation, stop by your local Department of Motor Vehicles office with two passport-quality photos and your driver's license. For around $15, you'll get your IDP so you can move along with international adventure plans.
It's all about getting to know the locals—local driving rules, that is.
Every country has its own set of driving rules, etiquette and laws. Some countries may require drivers to purchase road permits for certain roads or highways. Likewise, there are places that require drivers to honk their horns around corners or drive on the left side of the road. Getting to know the ground rules may be a good idea. Find a copy of your destination's driving rules through the country's embassy.
Don't spoil it—stay on course.
It's good to know the route you'll be traveling. Plan ahead with your GPS and carry a good road map. Charting your course before you get out on the road will allow you to spend more time enjoying your trip, rather than bickering with your travel partner.
Go the extra mile—when it comes to adding rental car coverage.
If you're further from home than Canada, your U.S. auto insurance most likely won't cover you. When renting an international car, look into any additional coverage options that the rental agency offers. It's always a good idea to carry as much coverage abroad as you do at home. You wouldn't be underinsured at home, so why would you want to risk it in a foreign country?
Be aware of your surroundings—the road can be wild, along with its drivers.
A jointly-authored report by the World Health Organization and the World Bank reports that the current level of road traffic injuries are about 1.3 million people annually worldwide. This is unacceptable and largely avoidable. Use your mirrors and your wits to know when to be an offensive or a defensive driver.
The most important thing to remember when traveling abroad is simply to have fun, use common sense and enjoy the culture around you.