You are here: Home
» Media
Centre » Press
Releases 2005 » Practical tips for bikers travelling to
Europe
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR BIKERS TRAVELLING TO EUROPE
Romford, 22nd June 2005 – As more bikers
are now taking to the roads in many European countries, leading
motorcycle insurance broker Devitt is offering practical tips to
bikers to ensure their journey is a safe and enjoyable one.
According to Devitt, there are some legal differences, informal
codes of behaviour as well as essential documents that bikers should
be aware of when travelling to a European country.
In France - one of the most popular destinations for UK bikers
– there are more speed cameras and stringent policing to contend
with then ever before. It is mandatory to have your running lights
on during the day and night. And there are numerous informal codes
of behaviour to be aware of.
For example, if a fellow biker makes a horizontal ‘V’
sign with his left hand, this means ‘hello’. If he sticks
his right leg out, this means ‘thank you’. And if a
truck suddenly indicates right and there is no right turning, this
means that the road is clear ahead.
Other popular European countries also have their own rules and
regulations that bikers should consider. In Germany you must carry
a first aid kit and spare light bulbs. In Finland and Scandinavian
countries, all cars as well as motorcycles must have their running
lights on during the day and night, making it less obvious to spot
fellow bikers. In Italy, motorcycles are not allowed to tow trailers.
And in Switzerland, you must buy a special tax sticker if you are
going to use the auto routes.
In Spain, warning other vehicles that a speed checkpoint is ahead
is illegal.
Commenting on the differences in rules and regulations, Devitt’s
Managing Director (at the time) Martin Pretlove said:
"Over 80% of our touring motorcycle customers now travel in Europe
so it is important that we make them aware of the different rules
and regulations as well as arranging their insurance and breakdown
cover. We want them to enjoy their travels and that means keeping
them fully informed and safe.”
Despite legal differences and informal codes of behaviour, all
European countries recognise and require, if necessary, a number
of essential documents that bikers should carry with them:
- Ideally a modern driving licence with a photo, making identification
easier;
- V5 registration document (original) and European breakdown cover,
especially useful in a breakdown situation;
- Insurance certificate which is valid in Europe (a Green Card
is no longer required); and
- New E111 form introduced in 2005, entitling free medical treatment.
Martin Pretlove gives some final tips for bikers travelling to
Europe:
“Always take a few minutes to check your motorcycle before you
go. If nothing else, lubricate the chain and check the engine oil
level, tyre conditions and pressures. Washing the motorcycle is an excellent
way to spot loose bolts or damage.”
Motoring infringements in mainland Europe have no effect on a motorcyclist’s
UK driving licence, nor is there currently any requirement to disclose
them for insurance purposes. However, European legislators are reviewing
this situation.
- ENDS -
For further information, please contact:
Linda Lo Castro
Marketing Manager
Devitt Insurance Services Limited
Tel: 0207 656 6830
Email: linda.locastro@rbsfinsure.co.uk
Notes to editors:
Devitt Insurance Services Limited is a specialist motorcycle insurance
broker, and is part of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group. Authorised
and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA), the business
grew from the success of Devitt DA, established in 1936, which revolutionised
the motorcycle insurance industry with the innovative idea of offering
customers instant insurance cover through the motorcycle dealer.
Devitt’s success has allowed it to expand into other areas
of Personal Lines insurance, including car and home insurance. Devitt
is also recognised for arranging insurance schemes for employee
groups, clubs, associations and other affinity groups.
Press Release Archive: 2007 | 2006
| 2005
Top of
Page  |
