The UK has opted out of new European legislation that means drivers face penalties for traffic offences when driving in other European countries. From 7 November 2013, EU members will exchange cross-border information on road safety-related offences.
Eight offences are listed in the directive including speeding, not using a seatbelt, drink driving, not stopping at a red traffic light and illegally using a mobile phone.
However, the UK, Ireland and Denmark have currently decided to opt out of the legislation, meaning the new law does not apply to UK drivers.
Koen Ricour, president of European traffic police network TISPOL, said: “We want motorists to comply with the rules of the road, wherever in Europe they may be driving. Those who do will have nothing to fear from the new legislation.”
