DRIVING IN SCOTLAND.
Scotland has an excellent road network with motorways
and dual carriageway roads linking many of the main cities and towns.
The primary road network extends over most of the country except for a
few remote areas, where there are single track roads with passing places
(this means that you have to draw in to let others pass or overtake).
It is part of the pleasurable experience in getting away from traffic
jams to drive on the quiet roads in Scotland. There are no tolls on the
roads in Scotland but there are four bridges which have a toll charge
- the Forth, Tay, Erskine and Skye bridges
Driving Licence and Insurance
The holder of an overseas driving licence may, for a period of up to
one year, drive a motor vehicle in Britain. Visitors bringing their
own cars from overseas require green-card insurance and the car registration
documents.
Drinking & Driving
You are strongly advised not to drink and drive. If caught and convicted,
the criminal penalties can be severe.
The limits are: 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath, or, 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood.
Speed Limits
Unless otherwise signposted, speed limits on UK roads are
Motorway: 70 mph/ 112 kph
Dual Carriageway: 70 mph/ 112 kph
Single Carriageway: 60 mph/ 96 kph
Built-up areas: 30 mph/ 48 kph
Be Aware
Unmarked police cars patrol regularly and remote speed cameras are positioned
on many roads.
Fuel
Many fuel stations throughout Scotland are open 24 hours a day and all
provide unleaded and lead-replacement petrol and diesel. In remote areas,
distances between stations are greater and opening hours may be shorter.
Fuel is priced and sold by the litre.
Seat Belts
It is compulsory to wear seat belts, both front and rear. Small children
and babies must be restrained in a appropriate child seat or carrier.
Child seats should be ordered when you book your car.
The Highway Code
The rules for driving in Britain can be found in The Highway Code, available
from Her Majesty's Stationery Offices (i.e. government bookshops), other
bookshops, newsagents and from motoring organisations such as the AA and
the RAC.
