Driving Tips
- Parking Regulations: Familiarise yourself with parking regulations and restrictions. Look out for signs indicating parking rules and avoid parking in prohibited areas. Parking on the wrong lines, especially double yellow lines, will get you fined about £70 in some cities.
- Congestion Charges: Be aware of congestion charges in cities like London and plan your routes to avoid extra costs.
- Weather Conditions: Adjust your driving to suit weather conditions. Drive slower in rain, fog, or icy conditions to ensure safety.
- Roadside Assistance: Consider joining a roadside assistance service like the AA or RAC for emergencies.
- Eco-Driving: Practise eco-driving techniques, such as smooth acceleration and braking, to save fuel and reduce emissions.
- School Zones: Drive carefully in school zones, adhering to lower speed limits and watching for children crossing the road.
- Blind Spots: Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging. Use mirrors and turn your head to ensure it is clear.
- Night Driving: Use dipped headlights at night and in poor visibility. Avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights to prevent dazzle.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly check your vehicle’s oil, tyre pressure, lights, and brakes to maintain it in good working condition.
- Motorcycle Awareness: Be extra cautious of motorcyclists. They can be less visible, so always double-check when changing lanes or turning.
- Left-Hand Driving: Always drive on the left side of the road. This is the most fundamental rule in the UK.
- Seat Belts: Both drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times. This is mandatory and can result in fines if not adhered to.
- Speed Limits: Adhere to speed limits, by area: 30mph in built-up areas, 60mph on single carriageways, 70mph on motorways and dual carriageways.
- Roundabouts: Give way to traffic coming from the right at roundabouts. Use indicators to show your intended exit.
- Mobile Phones: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal. Use hands-free devices if necessary.
- Drink Driving: The legal alcohol limit is 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. Avoid drinking if you plan to drive.
- Pedestrian Crossings: Stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings and be cautious at pelican, puffin, and toucan crossings.
- Motorway Etiquette: Use the left lane for normal driving and the right lane for overtaking. Don’t hog the middle lane.
- Road Signs and Markings: Pay close attention to road signs and markings. They provide crucial information about road conditions and regulations.
- Emergency Vehicles: Make way for vehicles with flashing lights and sirens by pulling over safely.
- Licenses: International licenses expire after one year. Apply for a British provincial license in your first year of arrival if you intend to drive.