Roads
In the UK we drive on the left side of the road. There are only a few motorways in
Scotland which are all toll-free and link the three main towns of Glasgow, Edinburgh and
Stirling, most roads that run between main towns are good dual-carriageway roads. In more
remote areas and the further North you go the roads become more narrower and winding with
some roads becoming just a single track with passing places.
When driving around keep a lookout for National Tourist Routes which are
signposted along main roads, these routes will take you on scenic routes along quiet roads
and through the countryside. The signposts have white lettering on brown background, along
with a blue thistle symbol so are easily spotted. |
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Brown signposts with white lettering provide information on, for example,
castles and other attractions, accommodation, Tourist Information Centres, scenic areas,
and picnic sites. Look out for the blue thistle for attractions and facilities inspected
for quality by the Scottish Tourist Board.
Car Hire
Most Scottish airports have facilities for car hire, but it is always advisable to pre
book your car hire through your travel agent before you arrive. There are some local
companies who deliver car hires to airports by prior arrangement. Some hire company's may
charge extra for one way hires, that is if you pick up a car in one town and drop it off
in another. When you hire your car be sure to check the fuel level in the tank before you
start your journey, and return the car with the same level of fuel otherwise you will have
to pay a refuelling fee. If you prefer automatic transmission, then you should book this
in advance. Most companies require the driver to be between 23 and 75 years old, with a
current driving licence having been held for at least one year.
Driving
Laws
The holder of an overseas driving licence may drive a motor vehicle in Britain, for a
period of up to one year. Visitors bringing their own cars from overseas require
green-card insurance and the car registration documents.
It is against the law to drive under the influence of alcohol. It's a highly enforced law
in Scotland and very unsociable. You are strongly advised not to drink and drive.
Penalties are severe.
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 can be ordered with some
hired car company's and should be ordered when you book your car.
It
is compulsory for Motorcyclists to wear crash helmets. It's the law.
Speed Limits
Motorway ..................70mph/112kph
Dual Carriageway .....70mph/112kph
Single Carriageway... 60mph/96kph
Built-up areas ............30mph/48kph
unless otherwise signposted
Marked
and unmarked police cars are positioned on many roads. Permanent speed cameras are
situated along some of the busy routes, and operate 24 hours a day.
The rules for driving in Britain can be found in the Highway Code available from most
bookshops, newsagents and from motoring organisations, for example the AA and the RAC.
Fuel
Many fuel stations throughout Scotland are open 24 hours a day. In remote areas the
distances between stations are much greater and opening hours are usually much shorter.
Fuel may cost more in the remote areas of Scotland.
