British drivers face massive fines for not having a 'UK sticker or plate marking' in Europe

Drivers across the UK have been cautioned ahead of the summer when travelling abroad, or they could get slapped with hefty fines in several different countries.

Millions of drivers are travelling around the country this weekend as schools break up for summer, with some likely heading towards the ports to travel on the continent.

However, drivers are being warned of potential consequences they face when travelling on European roads, as little-known road rules could catch them out.

Breakdown experts from GEM Motoring Assist have called on drivers to make sure they are aware of key rules in some of the most popular holiday destinations.

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They advise motorists to check for the local laws wherever they are travelling, as differences in speed limits, low emission zones and mandatory equipment can lead to fines.

France has a number of Low Emission Zones with drivers required to display Crit'Air stickers that denote the emissions output of the vehicle.

Even vehicles not registered in France must display the Crit'Air sticker in order to travel on French roads.

Without the sticker, cars with higher pollution counts could be fined a staggering €180 (£153) for entering the zones.

The experts added that motorists could face a fine of €140 (£119) if they do not have a "UK sticker or plate marking" and are driving without the correct country code.

Britons travelling to Europe can also face fines if they are at the side of the road without a reflective vest or a warning triangle.

This could see drivers slapped with a charge of up to €135 (£115), while seat belt and child restraint violations could lead to on-the-spot fines.

James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, said: "Driving abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it brings additional risks that shouldn't be underestimated.

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"Fatigue, unfamiliar road systems and unexpected costs can quickly turn a holiday journey into something stressful and potentially risky.

"The key is preparation - plan your route, understand the rules of the road in each country, and make regular stops to stay alert. A well-prepared driver is a safer driver."

Mr Luckhurst also warned that a return motorway journey from the UK to the south of France can "easily exceed" £200 in toll charges alone.

The road safety organisation states that driver tiredness contributes to up to 20 per cent of collisions on major roads.

This can be even more dangerous if they are travelling on roads that they have not driven on before, and are not used to the road rules in the country they're in.

Drivers should take regular breaks at least every two hours, stay well hydrated and avoid driving during the hottest time of the day.

One of the key tips Mr Luckhurst advised was to drive on the right-hand side of the road, and to take extra care at junctions, roundabouts and when joining motorways.

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