Used van retailer Van Monster has created the following European road rules quiz to help you gain a better understanding of the different road rules in place in countries throughout Europe.
Answer the questions below and see if you have the knowledge to avoid inadvertently breaking the law when you’re behind the wheel in a nation across the continent:
Questions
1. What is the meaning behind ‘zona traffico limitato’ when seen on a sign in Italy?
a) There is a traffic restriction in the area ahead
b) There is a pedestrian restriction in the area ahead
c) The area ahead is open to traffic
2. If you’re driving in Spain but not a resident, how many red warning triangles must you carry in your vehicle?
a) 1
b) 2
c) 3
3. In Denmark, when can you use spiked tyres on your vehicle?
a) All year round
b) April 16th to October 31st each year
c) November 1st to April 15th each year
4. Which side of the road do you drive when travelling across Cyprus?
a) Either
b) Left
c) Right
5. When can you use a mobile phone when driving in Belgium?
a) You can’t use your mobile phone at all when driving
b) You can use your mobile phone at all times when driving
c) A hands-free system is the only way you can use your mobile phone when driving
6. If you’re driving in France and see a yellow diamond sign with a diagonal black line running through it, what does it mean?
a) The end of a priority road
b) You have transferred onto a priority road
c) Yellow vehicles aren’t allowed
7. In the Netherlands, what manoeuvre should you perform when a tram or bus stops in the middle of the road to allow passengers on and off?
a) Overtake from the left, when it is safe to do so
b) Overtake from the right, when it is safe to do so
c) Stop
Answers
1. A
Limited Traffic Zones is the English translation of the Italian phrase Zona Traffico Limitato. You can expect to see them around the country’s historical areas, where they serve to reduce pollution and cut down on congestion around these sites.
2. A
One red warning triangle is the compulsory amount that you need to carry when you’re a driver who isn’t from Spain. Residents must carry two though.
3. C
During this period, take note that you must fit spiked tyres to all four wheels of your vehicle if you choose to use them.
4. B
Just like with Malta, the Republic of Ireland and the UK, Cyprus requires motorists to drive on the left hand side of the road.
5. C
You can access a mobile phone via a hands-free system when driving in Belgium without risk of being penalised. Drive while using a mobile phone in any other manner though and you risk being fined.
6. A
As a result, drivers are required to yield at all subsequent intersections on a stretch of road where these signs are present.
7. C
On the topic of trams in the Netherlands, it is also important to bear in mind that they have priority over other forms of transport across the country.
How well do you know your Cypriot car users from your Danish drivers then? Take a look through these handy country-by-county guides provided by Avis and the AA if you could do with learning more about European road rules.