There are several advantages to driving around by yourself when you are in a different country. At the same time, there can be a great deal of uncertainty and responsibility involved, as well. There is a good chance that the rules and traffic are quite different from what you are used to. So, let’s take a look at how you can continue to be safe when you get behind the wheel in a foreign country:
Remind Yourself Which Side to Drive On
It is perhaps one of the trickiest aspects of driving in another country. It can take you a long time to get used to being on a completely different side. At the same time, you mustn’t ever forget which side you need to be on. If you make a mistake, you could end up in an accident. To make it easier to remind yourself, place a note on your steering wheel or the inside of your windshield. This way, you will always have your instructions staring you right in the face. Eventually, you will cease to need this note.
Learn the Laws
Another thing you should do is brush up on is the road rules of the country that you are driving in. These can differ quite a bit from one place to another. For instance, in Canada, specific laws are quite strict – driving under the influence in particular. In other countries, you may be able to get behind the wheel after a drink. It isn’t necessarily the case in Canada, however. So, do some research with an expert such as Jeff Mass, drinking and driving lawyer. This way, you will be able to avoid any mistakes that can land you in trouble.
Cover Your Legal Angles
The last thing that you want to do is to get into legal trouble while traveling. To prevent this from happening, make sure that you take the necessary precautions. For instance, try to get insurance for yourself and your rental car. Thus, if you do get into an accident, you don’t need to worry about having to deal with an enormous bill. At the same time, have a reputable attorney on speed dial. After all, you can never know when you may need to call a DUI lawyer in Toronto for assistance. So, it is better to be prepared.
Go Slow
Since you are surrounded by so many unfamiliar things – rules, roads, cars, surroundings, you should stay well below the speed limit at all times. It is something that you should do even if you are on a lonely stretch of road. See, when you speed up, it is a lot easier to make mistakes. However, when you drive slowly, you give yourself more time to react. Not to mention, even if you do get into an accident, the impact may be a lot less dangerous.
These are the most useful tips to follow when driving in a foreign country. Therefore, it will serve you well to follow them at all times, regardless of where you are.
