Below are some basic road rules whilst driving in Italy.
- Drive on the right and overtake on the left.
- At roundabouts the traffic from the right has the right of way.
- Seat belts are compulsory in the front and back.
- Children under the age of 12 must travel in the rear passenger seats. The use of hand-held mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
- Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (previously 0.08%); If you get stopped you will be fined.
- Lights must be turned on when driving on the motorways/dual-carriage ways
- Low-beam headlights are compulsory in tunnels.
- If you are stopped for a traffic violation, police are empowered to collect fines on the spot €40-€50
- It is mandatory to have €40-50 cash with you at all times incase of an event like this.
- A red warning triangle must be carried and used at a breakdown or accident.
- Driving in Switzerland, you must have a tax disc (vignette) valid for one year displayed on your windscreen. These can be bought at the border crossings and service stations (approx €40/€50)
Always check your mirrors as motorcyclists can suddenly appear out of nowhere.
Tailgating in Italy is a normal occurrence, don’t panic or speed-up, they will soon overtake you at the first opportunity.
- Speed Limits Motorway 130 kph (80 mph)
- Motorway Wet 110 kph (68 mph)
- Dual Carriageway 110 kph (68 mph)
- Other Roads 90 kph (56 mph)
- Urban Areas 50 kph (31 mph)