Be prepared before European trips

British caravan owners and other motorists, who are planning to escape for an overseas break during the winter season, should check that they don't fall foul of different regulations across Europe.

UK insurers will provide a green card, to be carried with you, to prove that you are insured; in some countries motorists are also required to carry their car registration documents and UK driving licences too.

Vehicles will need to display a GB sticker.

France and Spain have different speed limits in case of rain, and in mountainous regions drivers are required to carry snow chains – with an on-the-spot fine if they are stopped.

James Harrison, chief executive of insurancewide.com, advises: "It really does pay, before you set off, to check European motoring laws and to check that your car insurance policy covers you for accident or breakdown abroad.

"Even if you have comprehensive car insurance in the UK, some insurers will not extend this to trips abroad – they will only offer third party cover. A separate European breakdown policy usually includes benefits such as repairing your car at the roadside, the return of your vehicle to the UK if it cannot be driven and the cost of travelling home if your car is stolen. Compare the market carefully and be clear what you want covered before you buy."

Motorists are also urged to buy a car kit containing a warning triangle, headlight deflectors, spare bulbs, high visibility clothing and a first aid kit before they depart – they can be purchased on the ferry, but they tend to be more expensive.

21/11/2007 10:15:50