Driving in Britain

One of the most enjoyable ways of seeing Britain is by driving. The country has a very extensive network of modern motorways and A roads linking all its main cities. When visiting Britain, the motorist from abroad should remember a number of differences in using the roads. In contact to other countries, cars in Britain travel on the left hand side of the road and overtake on the right, which may cause some problems, especially if the traveler's car has right hand drive. If should also be remembered that priority must alleys be given to cars coming from the right, particularly at roundabouts.
In spite of dense traffic on almost all British roads, the country has one of the lowest number of road deaths in Europe. There are a few reasons for this. First, British drivers are known for their coutesy and consideration. Second, both divers and front-seat passengers are obliged to wear seat-belts. Third, there are very strict rules against drinking and diving. A drunken person can be banned from driving for two or three years, fined heavily (up to £5000), or even imprisoned. Fourth, the maximum permitted speed in towns and built-up areas is only 30 mph (about 50 km/h).
According to recent estimates, about 70 per cent of British families own one or more cars. For that reason, driving in big cities is often frustrating with frequent hold-us and crowded streets. However, motorists can avoid traffic jams if they refrain from driving during rush hour (between 8 and 9 o’clock a.m. and between 5 and 6 o’clock p.m.). Heavy traffic is not the only inconvenience in big cities. Many drivers have problems with parking, especially in the center. Infringement of parking regulations can result in fines, wheel clamps or even the removal of a vehicle by the police.
Diving is more enjoyable on modern motorways on which drivers may maintain a speed of 70 miles an hour (112 km/h). If they are tired of driving, they may stop at any motorway service center beside the road. If usually includes a cafeteria, parking space, a motor hotel and a shop where newspaper, sweets, soft drinks, books and souvenirs can be bought. If travelers have more time to spare, they may leave the motorway at almost any exit and within a radius of 3 miles enjoy the quiet English countryside and the hospitality of local people.