Car insurance customers considering embarking on an overseas motoring holiday have been urged to research local road rules before they set off.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) said that it is a good idea for drivers to research the meaning of road signs and to understand different speed limits applicable in the country of travel .
"Many countries' rules and traffic regulations will be similar to UK conventions, but there will be some discrepancies," said Peter Rodger, IAM chief examiner, adding that the general rule of "triangles warn, circles prohibit and rectangles inform" should be remembered if in doubt.
"Rules of the road are often enforced with greater firmness abroad, and ignorance is no excuse - tourist or not, you will be prosecuted."
The IAM recommended that motorists double check their car insurance cover before driving overseas . While many policies cover driving in Europe as standard it is worth checking the restrictions that apply and whether breakdown cover is included.
Holidaymakers opting to hire a car once they have reached their destination were also advised to check the car over carefully for previous damage before accepting it.




