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Relax and enjoy your journey in Portugal with Drive Safe
Driving in Portugal can be quite challenging, particularly for those motorists used to even road surfaces and clear and regular road signs. The local driving culture tends to be generally quite fast. However, a little understanding of some of the basic driving principles adopted locally will help visitors achieve a more relaxed driving experience. Understanding some of the actions of local motorists - for example, tailgating is a common occurrence, flashing other motorists is a sign to get out of the way rather than to let them pass through - can also help ensure your visit is a safe and enjoyable one.
City Driving
Roundabouts are much more common than traffic lights at intersections in Portugal. Right of way at these roundabouts usually goes to the vehicles that have already entered the roundabout. Road signs are quite common and the colour of each sign will distinguish between town, village, motorway and places of interest.
Occasionally there are conflicting signs indicating the same town can be reached by going either left or right at an intersection. This means both roads will reach that destination by different routes.
Country Driving
Country roads have only one lane in each direction and are relatively narrow with tight curves. The roads are badly lit and they only have central marks. Drivers should therefore take great care when travelling on these roads.
| Local Knowledge |
Summary of Driving Terms | |||||||||||||||
| Speed Limit on Motorways | 120kmh (72mph) |
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| Speed Limit on Open Roads | 90kmh (54mph) | |||||||||||||||
| Speed Limit in Towns | 50kmh (30mph) | |||||||||||||||
| Alcohol Limit | 50mg of alcohol in the bloodstream Penalties are extremely stiff High amounts of alcohol in bloodstream may result in imprisonment |
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| Road Tolls | Toll roads can be very expensive and are less frequently used by locals |
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| Use of Mobile Phone Whilst Driving | It is illegal to use a hand held mobile phone when driving and visitors can be fined up to €600 |
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| On the Spot Fines | Visitors to Portugal are required to pay traffic fines on the spot, and they can be expensive All other fines (car documents, etc) may be issued later |
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| Seat Belts | Compulsory for front and rear seated occupants if fitted Children under 12 years are prohibited from sitting in the front seat |
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| Traffic Light Regulations | Red – Stop Amber – Slow down Green – Go |
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| Rush Hour in Built Up Areas | 0700 - 1000hrs | |||||||||||||||
| Fuel | Almost all the fuel stations operate 24/7 Payment can be made by cash or credit card An extra €0.50 is charged when petrol is paid with a credit card Diesel, Petrol, unleaded and lead replacement is available Credit Cards are accepted at most filing stations and pumps |
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| Parking Advice | Parking is allowed on the right side of the road (i.e. only on the right in the direction you are travelling). In the cities, there are many fee-paying car parks |
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