More than half (56%) of motorists surveyed by the RAC have reservations about driving abroad, and not being able to speak the local language is their biggest concern.
While 42% of those surveyed cited breaking down or being stranded as their top concern, 48% were most worried about not being able to converse in the local language in the event of a break down.
Other concerns included feeling uneasy about the behaviour of local drivers (27%) and not understanding foreign road signs (22%).
45% of respondents said they feel more nervous behind the wheel when abroad, with 12% getting their partner to drive for the entire trip. The results indicate that a much higher proportion of women (46%) rather than men (19%) confess to feeling trepidation on their travels.
David Huggon, RAC European breakdown operations manager, said: “Driving abroad can be a daunting experience for some. Ultimately, planning is key, and our advice is to make sure you have everything you need before you set off so that nothing comes between you and the open roads.
“A translation book could not only come in handy in shops and cafes, but may be useful if you happen to break down or be involved in an accident.”
Well just take the transit country of Belgium? On stopping for petrol on the motorway you drive straight to the toilets not realising your purchased coffee will secure you a free pee you pay top dollar! Only then to discover on leaving you have driven through the pumps and can no longer return to fill up.
Heading for the open road you fail to realise “Luik” is the Flemish for “Liege” and “Aken” is the Flemish for”Aachen” On stopping at the next possible services your toilet appears to be a very large tree with no sign of any petrol.
Gareth, Surrey
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