Ofesauto has published a guide to travelling abroad with your car, which includes: legal requirements, the importance of valid insurance and road safety tips. The guide answers questions such as:
Does my Spanish car insurance cover me when travelling abroad?
Regardless of the countries you visit, it is essential to have valid insurance to protect you in case of accidents or unforeseen events on the road. But is my Spanish car insurance valid wherever I travel? The answer is no.. It all depends on your travel route. At that point you will have several options, your Spanish car insurance, the International Certificate of Insurance (CIS) or the Border Insurance.
CIS, Border Insurance or Spanish Car Insurance
In short, here’s what you need to know to travel properly insured with your car.
- Spanish Car Insurance
You can travel with your valid Spanish car insurance to the EEA, Andorra, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland or Norway. You do not need CIS.
- CIS
If you are travelling to countries outside the EEA, such as our neighbours, Morocco, Turkey or Tunisia, the International Insurance Certificate (CIS) is required. This document, issued by your insurance company, is internationally recognised and proves that you have valid third party cover.
You will need to apply for the International Insurance Certificate (CIS, formerly called Green Card) from your insurance company, but it is important to understand that the CIS is an additional cover to your Spanish car insurance, so the insurance company may or may not give it to you.
- Border Insurance
You will also need Border Insurance if you have not obtained the International Certificate of Insurance and you are travelling to one of the 12 countries where it is compulsory In the case of Spain, Morocco is the closest country that requires CIS.
This document can be purchased at the border of the countries you are entering and is also a third party insurance.
Also, if you arrive as far away as Russia or Azerbaijan, the International Insurance Certificate (formerly called Green Card) will not be valid and you will need to purchase Border Insurance there.
Covers and benefits of CIS or Border Insurance
Both will offer the same cover: third party damage only (Third Party Liability). Remember that it is important to request the International Certificate of Insurance (CIS) from your insurance company before you travel, in case you need it and they may refuse.
Key points to check in the insurance document you need when travelling abroad with your car:
- Public liability.
- Extra coverage: Check the voluntary guarantees that the insurance companies give you when granting you the CIS, as, normally, you will not have coverage such as travel assistance, accommodation, per diems, etc., in case of an accident, even though your Spanish insurance with the same company has them.
- Legal assistance: In case you are faced with legal situations due to a traffic accident abroad, CIS or Border Insurance may not provide legal assistance to protect your rights and interests. Check with your insurance company or when purchasing your Border Insurance.
Road safety tips for travelling abroad
Each country has its own driving regulations and conditions, so it is crucial to be prepared and take extra precautions.
10 road safety tips for driving in foreign countries, such as France, Morocco, Portugal, UK, etc..:
- Research and familiarise yourself with local regulations
Before you leave, research the traffic regulations and road laws of the country you will be visiting. Make sure you know the speed rules, road signs and priority laws. Also, familiarise yourself with any special regulations, such as toll systems or vignettes that may apply. - Adapting to the roadside
In some countries, as the UK, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Make sure you familiarise yourself with this difference before driving in such places and stay focused to avoid confusion. - Respect speed rules
Always comply with the speed limits set in each country. Remember that speeds may vary depending on the type of road and weather conditions. Pay attention to the signs and adapt your speed accordingly. - Pay attention to signs and markings
Road signs may vary from country to country, both in design and meaning. Familiarise yourself with local signs and markings to avoid confusion and ensure a safe journey. - Keep a safe distance
Always keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you. This will give you enough time to react to any unforeseen events on the road. Remember that traffic conditions and speeds may vary in different countries. - Correct use of lights and signalling
Make sure you use your car’s lights properly. Know your local regulations on the use of low beams, high beams and directional signals. This will help you stay visible and communicate effectively with other drivers abroad. - Precautions in urban areas
Take special care when driving in urban areas with heavy traffic and pedestrians. Respect lower speed limits, watch out for cyclists and use caution when overtaking and parking. - Avoid using electronic devices while driving
Keep your attention on the road at all times and avoid being distracted by electronic devices such as mobile phones. Use hands-free systems if necessary, but remember that road safety must be your priority. - Plan regular breaks
Long journeys can be tiring, so it is important to plan regular stops to rest, stretch your legs and maintain your concentration. Take advantage of these stops to refresh, hydrate and recharge your batteries. - Keep your insurance documents accessible:
Make sure you have your insurance documents and the International Insurance Certificate (CIS), if applicable, the latter necessarily printed in case of inspections or in the event of an accident. You may have taken out a Border Insurance, keep this also to show in case it is required.
