From 1 July motorists in Germany must have at least one safety vest for the breakdown case on board. But who goes on holiday trips abroad, must follow some rules. Because the warning waistcoat in Europe is not uniform.
In Germany, motorists are required from July to have at least one safety vest in the car. In other European countries, from France to Croatia, the flash cover has long been mandatory. “We generally recommend putting on safety vests for safety reasons in the event of a breakdown, no matter in which country,” ADAC lawyer Michael Nissan explains to travelers who set off on their summer vacation by car.
Safety vest best in the glove box.
The best is according to Nissan in the car for every passenger a vest ready — and not in the trunk, but handy in the glove compartment. The regulations on the obligation of warning west and the fines for their disregard differ from holiday country to holiday country.
France: The safety clothing must not only be worn in an emergency, but always be there — preferably in the glove box, because it must be tightened before leaving the vehicle. This also applies to the passengers. Who is caught without a vest, pays at least 90 Euros. Motorcycles and quads are excluded.
Italy: Anyone who is outside closed villages on the carriageway without a vest risks a warning fee of at least 41 Euros. However, under Italian law, this only affects the driver or the person setting up the warning triangle. Motorcyclists are excluded. In the case of controls, however, no vest must be presented. “In Italy, only the duty to wear,” says Nissan.
Austria: Here is a warning vest for the driver obligatory in the luggage. In poor visibility, in confusing areas or in the dark, the vests must be covered even in case of breakdowns on the highway. “Austria is the only country where our members report enforced fines,” says Nissan. The penalty is between 14 and 36 Euros.
Spain: Reflective safety vests must carry drivers of cars, buses and trucks, but moped and motorcyclists do not. If you do not wear a vest, you risk a fine of up to 100 Euros — if you pay the penalty immediately, the Spanish police will grant half the amount.