DRIVING IN THE UK

Driving Laws and safety tips for campervan rental in the UK

Although we want you to go out and have an unforgettable road trip experience, your safety is our number one priority. We have therefore created this list of safety tips and driving laws for the four nations of the United Kingdom. You can rest assured that you will be driving in not only absolute comfort with one of our rental VW Campervans, but that you will always be safe and legal no matter where your journey takes you!

Speed Limit

Speed Limits

The speed limits across the United Kingdom are all set depending on the type of road and level of urban density. Here’s a quick round-up for you to keep in mind.

The national speed limit in the UK is 70 miles per hour and is marked by a circular white sign with a black outline and a black slash through its center.

  • Motorway speed limits are 70mph.
  • Dual carriageways and dual A-roads have a 70mph speed limit.
  • Built-up areas such as towns, city centres and villages have a 30mph speed limit.
  • Rural roads or single carriage A-roads usually have a 60mph speed limit unless signed restrictions say otherwise.

It is also important to note that many densely populated areas – especially ones near schools – have marked 20mph speed restrictions and these are often speed camera-controlled areas.

Parking Rules

Parking Rules

Parking laws in the UK are often organised by local councils and signed as such, but there are a few basic rules to know.

Parking is allowed in…..

  • Designated parking bays within car parks or on the side of the road within white-lined marked bays. These bays may have certain time restrictions which will be noted on signage near the bay.
  • You can park on the side of the road so long as you do not block driveway access and there is no local signage saying otherwise. However, you must avoid blocking the pavement or oncoming traffic as this is a fineable offence.
  • A single yellow line which will be painted on the road means no waiting, parking, loading, or unloading at the times shown on the accompanying sign. The signed restrictions tend to be lifted during evenings and weekends, but it is best to check the sign before parking.

Where parking is not allowed….

  • A double yellow line painted on the road means parking and waiting are not permitted at any time.
  • A double or single red line painted on the road means parking, waiting, and stopping are not permitted at any time.
  • A red cross over a blue background sign is used to indicate a clearway, which means no stopping or parking at any time.
  • Yellow zig-zag lines outside schools, hospitals, or fire, police or ambulance stations indicates the length of a road were stopping or waiting is strictly prohibited. This is to allow service vehicle access only.
  • White zig zag lines that note a pedestrian crossing cannot be parked on.
Van

UK Driving Laws

These are strict national laws that all drivers in the UK must follow to avoid fines or in some circumstance prison sentences. These include the following…

  • Everyone in a vehicle must wear seatbelts at all times.
  • Using a mobile phone that is not hands-free is a finable offence.
  • In England, Wales and Northern Ireland the alcohol limit for drivers is 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath.
  • In Scotland, the drink driving limit is 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

Drink driving is harshly punished with high fines and driving bans!

Fuel and Tolls

Fuel and Tolls

Fuel stations and service areas are regularly located on the motorway network. Although they are common on A-roads, it is best to ensure that you keep your fuel tank full to avoid any mishaps! On rural country roads, the fuel stations tend to be serviced in the local towns and villages.

There are 14 major toll roads in the UK, 4 of which are on motorways and the remaining on A roads. Toll roads will be clearly marked by signs beforehand with pricing included! All accept cash or card payments.

Weather Precautions

Weather Precautions

The UK has no laws on restricted speeds during severe weather warnings, however caution is advised, and motorways may use digital signage to reduce speeds on motorways during rainy or snowy conditions.

Driving a Campervan Safely

Driving a Campervan Safely

There are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when driving a campervan in the United Kingdom. Here is our extensive list of the best campervan safety tips to ensure you have a smooth journey.

  • Always follow the speed limit and maintain a good level of distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. 
  • Always be aware of weather conditions such as high wind speeds which can cause vehicle sway. In this instance, reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
  • Ensure that when you are driving, all of cupboard and storage catches are firmly sealed to prevent items from falling during transit. 
  • Take care when cornering on smaller roads and tight places to ensure safe clearance. 
  • Make sure you are aware of your maximum vehicle height and be on the lookout for height restriction signs when driving. 
  • Be aware when passing pedestrians and cyclist and always ensure sufficient passing space when overtaking vehicles.

Follow these regulations and tips when travelling to ensure you always have a safe and comfortable journey and that you get the most out of your campervan rental experience! 

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