Economy Car Hire's Guide to Driving in Italy
Hiring a car in Italy is probably the best way to make the most of the Italian countryside and mountain ranges. In this guide we hope to explain some of the common mistakes made when hiring a car in Italy and how you can avoid them.
If you are planning to visit the big cites such as Rome, Florence, Milan etc. We advise that you park on the outskirts and use public transport, always be very careful to leave your car in a correct parking zone as fines can be hefty and are often received months after the rental. |
IMPORTANT - Drink Driving Limit in Italy
|
Speed Restrictions in Italy
|
CAR |
TOWING |
|
KPH |
MPH |
KPH |
MPH |
Built up Areas |
50 |
31 |
50 |
31 |
Major Roads |
90 |
56 |
80 |
50 |
Motorways |
130 |
81 |
80 |
50 |
|
Road signs in Italy are not always well positioned especially on the motorway where little prior notice is given for motorway exits. We recommend that you plan your route carefully in advance and look out for your exit.
Some roads in Italy can be very rough, these are probably best avoided as damaged to the underside of the vehicle is often not covered by the rental insurance. Driving off-road will always invalidate the insurance.
When driving in the winter, especially to mountain areas we recommend that you hire snow chains, even just as a precaution as the police may stop you from using certain roads if snow chains are not fitted. It is also very important to use winter fuel or a fuel additive, both prevent the fuel from freezing in extreme temperatures which could cause expensive damage to your vehicle.
In the event of an accident, the police should be contacted and you must obtain a police report. Always exchange relevant details if a third-party is involved and inform the rental company immediately. You can always contact our office for advice at any time.
Essential Information
- Seat Belts must be worn at all times, by everyone in the car.
- Children in the front seat must be at least 12 or in a suitable child restraint
- 1 Warning triangle must be carried at all times in the unfortunate event of an accident
- A high visibility vest is compulsory
- Headlights must be on dipped at all times in the following circumstance -
- Poor visibility (Including during the day)
- On motorways and dual carriageways
- In all tunnels at all times.
Fuel
Useful terms for when fueling your car.
Unleaded Regular - Benzina
Diesel - Gasolio
Mobile Phones
The use of a mobile phone in a car is only allowed if you either have a hands free kit or headset.
Parking
Parking generally on the right hand side in Italy. Parking is in blue zones where a disc is often needed for parking, these can generally be brought at Service Stations and operate in most towns.
Emergency Services Number
This is an international number and can be used in any EU country
| Police - |
112 |
| Ambulance - |
112 |
| Fire - |
112 |
For emergency details regarding your car hire please see your voucher. |
