Italy
Driving with winter tires even in the hotter months is nothing unusual in Austria. In Italy, on the other hand, it is forbidden – anyone caught by the police between May 16 and October 15 must expect a fine. This is even more serious in the case of a police alcohol test with more than 1.5 per mille. In this case, the level of punishment is up to the authorities, from a fine of several thousand euros to foreclosure of the car or a prison sentence. Fast drivers have to dig deep into their pockets between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.: fines increase by a third of their regular value at this time.
Switzerland
Switzerland is taking even tougher action against speeding. If you drive through a 30 zone at over 70 km/h, in the worst case you can even expect at least a year in prison. In general, the Confederates impose heavy fines on traffic violations. In order not to make your holiday in Switzerland even more expensive, it is advisable to take your foot off the gas pedal.
France
If you want to drive through France, you should also know where you are allowed to stop. Paid parking spaces are indicated in the “Grande Nation” by white lines, while yellow indicate no parking. Anyone who parks incorrectly can pay the fine directly with so-called tokens. These are available in tobacconists.
Spain
Travelers to whom the route to the Iberian holiday home seems Spanish should first stop before using the navigation system. The country’s catalog of fines stipulates that drivers should never use their navigation systems while driving. Those who do not comply must pay a fine of up to 500 euros. If you bring a fine as a souvenir from Spain, you should not wait too long: if you pay the fine within 20 days, you will receive a generous discount of 50 percent.
Greece
Setting an example is particularly important in Greece: Anyone who smokes in the car with children under the age of 12 on board risks a fine of up to 1,500 euros. Anyone who breaks the traffic rules in general should pay the fine immediately. Anyone who does not do this within ten days must then pay double the amount.
Source: Nachrichten
