Don’t Get Caught Out Abroad: GEM Warns UK Drivers of £200 Tolls and Costly Foreign Road Fines This Summer

· Work out your route and research the rules of the road in each country you’re visiting

· There are hefty fines for missing UK stickers, registration documents and high-viz vests

· Tolls and unfamiliar road laws can easily catch drivers out

Research shows driver tiredness contributes to up to 20% of collisions on major roads, with long, monotonous journeys posing particular risks. That’s why it’s so important to take breaks at least every two hours, stay well hydrated, and avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day where possible. Sharing the driving can also reduce fatigue and improve concentration, says GEM.

Count the cost

Budgeting a road trip abroad is another key consideration, according to GEM. It’s easy to underestimate the cost of toll roads across Europe; a return motorway journey from the UK to the south of France, for example, can easily exceed £200 in toll charges alone, depending on the route and vehicle type.

Planning routes in advance and understanding payment methods - such as cash, card or electronic toll tags - can prevent unnecessary stress and drastically reduce time spent queuing to pay at the toll plaza.

Street legal

It makes sense to familiarise yourself with local driving laws before you set off. Differences in speed limits, priority rules, low emission zones and mandatory equipment - such as reflective jackets or warning triangles - can lead to fines if ignored.

· A missing licence, passport, insurance or registration document means you won’t be able to continue your journey – and you face a fine and even your car being seized until you can produce the document.

· Without your UK sticker or plate marking, you could be fine up to €140 for driving without the correct country code.

· Drive without correctly-fitted beam deflectors and police can fine you €90.

· You face an on-the-spot fine if you’re caught driving in a French low‑emission zones without the mandatory ‘Crit’Air’ vignette.

· If you’re at the side of the road without a reflective vest or a warning triangle (two in France) you could be fined up to €135.

· There are also on-the-spot fines for seat belt and child restraint violations.

James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, said: “Driving abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it brings additional risks that shouldn’t be underestimated. Fatigue, unfamiliar road systems and unexpected costs can quickly turn a holiday journey into something stressful and potentially risky.

“The key is preparation - plan your route, understand the rules of the road in each country, and make regular stops to stay alert. A well-prepared driver is a safer driver.”

GEM’s holiday journey tips

Drive on the right: in most European countries you will be driving on the right-hand side of the road, so take extra care at junctions, roundabouts and when joining or leaving motorways.

Go the distance: don’t drive tired, build in time for proper breaks and share the driving on long journeys if you can.

Don’t drink and drive: GEM continues to advise that if you’re driving you should not drink any alcohol, and bear in mind that the vast majority of European countries have lower legal blood alcohol limits than the UK. Some even operate zero‑tolerance rules for certain driver groups.

Know the speed limits: speed limits differ by country and road type, so make sure you understand the limits and how they are signed, especially in rural areas and around schools.

Carry the right kit: check on the equipment required in each country you’re visiting. Reflective jackets, warning triangles, spare bulbs , certain documents and first aid kits are compulsory in many countries, so check the rules in advance and ensure everything is with you.

Watch for local restrictions: be aware of low-emission zones, city access charges, priority rules at junctions and requirements for day‑time running lights. These vary from country to country and may result in on‑the‑spot fines if ignored.

Keep up to date with GEM Motoring Assist at:

X: @motoringassist

Facebook: @gemmotoringassist

Instagram: @gem_motoringassist

LinkedIn: @gem-motoring-assist

Share this page on social media below: