Urgent travel warning as unusual European driving laws could cost you thousands

A road trip in Europe could be an amazing way to visit multiple countries in one trip and make the most out of them while you’re there.

However, every single country has different rules when it comes to driving – and some things that might be legal in one, might not be allowed in another. Nobody wants to get a fine while on holiday as this could ruin your trip, costing you thousands of pounds, penalty points or even your licence.

With Google searches for “Best roads to drive in Europe” up 80 per cent in the past month alone, it’s clear that many people are eager to explore the open roads this autumn. But before you hit the road, you should brush up on some of the continent’s most bizarre and unknown driving laws, as ignoring them could land you in hot water.

New research by Kia, which explored popular destinations for road trips, found that travellers are flocking to cities across the UK, Spain, Slovakia, Italy, and North Macedonia this autumn. Europe’s expanding charging infrastructure has even made many of these destinations suitable for hybrid and electric vehicles. The South Korean car manufacturer, headquartered in Seoul, has shared some laws you should be aware of before your road trip. These include fine for throwing objects from a car or overtaking in restricted areas.

Splashing a pedestrian

Where: UK

Fine amount: £5,000 fine

According to UK driving laws, something as seemingly harmless as driving through a puddle can have serious consequences. Thanks to the Road Traffic Act of 1988, if a driver splashes a pedestrian while driving through a puddle, they could face a fine of up to £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for others. It’s crucial to be mindful during autumn weather when puddles are more common. Always slow down when approaching a puddle and, if there is a pedestrian nearby, carefully drive around it if it is safe to do so, KIA recommends.

Drunk front passenger

Where: North Macedonia

Fine amount: On-the-spot penalty, depending on the severity of the situation

While all EU countries impose strict drink-driving laws, some extend these rules to passengers as well. In North Macedonia, front-seat passengers are required to be free from alcohol or drugs. If a front-seat passenger is found to be intoxicated, the driver could face penalties or on-the-spot fines. This will depend on the severity of the situation.

Throwing objects from a car

Where: Spain

Fine amount: up to €9,800 (£8,200) fine and four points

While many countries have laws against throwing objects from a vehicle, Spain enforces this rule with much stricter penalties. If you’re caught throwing anything from your car that could cause a fire or impact road safety, such as cigarette butts, you could be hit with a fine. The fine could range from €3,800 (£3,180) to nearly €9,800 (£8,200). You could also risk losing four points from your driving license. In comparison, the same offence in the UK typically results in a £150 fine, highlighting how seriously Spain takes road safety.

Mandatory winter tyres

Where: Slovakia

Fine amount: €60 (£50)

In Slovakia, it’s mandatory to equip your vehicle with winter tyres from November 15 to March 31, as the roads are covered with snow, ice, and frost during this period. If you’re caught driving without winter tyres in conditions where they are necessary, you could face a fine of around €60 (£50).

Overtaking restrictions

Where: Italy

Fine amount: From €75 (£63) to €300 (£251)

In Italy, overtaking is prohibited in high-risk areas such as level crossings on bends, at the brow of a hill, at intersections, and where visibility is limited. These restrictions aim to reduce accidents in places where the risk is highest. If caught overtaking in a prohibited location, drivers can face fines ranging from €75 (£63) to €300 (£251).