Driving in Austria vs. France: Key Differences Explained
When traversing the roads of Austria and France, drivers encounter distinct regulations and practices that shape their journey. From unique lane markings and speed limits to specific protocols for emergency services, understanding these variations is vital for ensuring a secure driving experience abroad. Explore the essential contrasts that can impact your travels in these two beautiful countries.
Driving Side
The driving side in austria is the Right Side of the road
Driving Safety Score
The driving Driving Safety Score in austria is 86
Gas Price in USD
The driving Driving Safety Score for austria is 1.628 US Dollars
While the driving side of a country remains the same, the driving safety score is updated annually based on each countries car accident fatality rate. Lastly, the gas price is only an estimate. Due to frequent fluctuations, it serves as a general reference rather than an exact figure for each country.
Lanes
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Markings: Solid Yellow Line | Used primarily near tram lines or in temporary roadworks. | Not commonly used; used for temporary markings during roadworks. | |
| Markings: Dashed Yellow Line | Marks temporary lane changes or works in progress. | Used for temporary markings during roadworks; passing permitted when safe. | |
| Overtaking: On Right | Allowed only in certain situations such as when the vehicle ahead is signaling a left turn. | Allowed only in specific conditions, such as heavy traffic; not generally recommended. | |
| Bus Lanes: Usage | Reserved for buses, taxis, and sometimes bicycles. | Reserved for buses, taxis, and sometimes cyclists. | |
| Bus Lanes: Markings | Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS ONLY'; often with road signs. | Labeled 'BUS'; often with road signs. | |
| High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements | N/A | N/A |
Speeds Limits
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles | 100 km/h | 80 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Buses And Vans | 80-100 km/h | 80 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers | 70-80 km/h | 80 km/h | |
| Highways: Trucks And Trailers | 80-100 km/h | 90 km/h | |
| Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines | Common; fines may also be mailed. | Not common; fines are usually mailed after citation |
Signals
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together | Indicates upcoming green light; prepare to move. | Not used in France | |
| Horn Usage: Prohibited Times | Unnecessary use discouraged; local ordinances may apply | Unnecessary use discouraged especially at night; local ordinances may apply | |
| Traffic Signs: Language | German; symbols are standard | French; symbols are standard |
Turns
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Turn On Red | Not allowed unless indicated by a sign or traffic light | Not allowed | |
| U- Turns Allowed | Prohibited in urban areas unless a sign permits it | Allowed if not specifically prohibited by signs |
Documentation
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A | Accepted; International Driving Permit not needed | Accepted for short visits | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U | Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended | International Driving Permit recommended | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Requirement | Yes, proof may be required | Yes, an MOT style test is required periodically | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Sticker | Displayed on license plate | Displayed on windshield | |
| Emergency Equipment: Warning Triangles | Mandatory | Mandatory in vehicle | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Mandatory | Mandatory in vehicle |
Road Etiquette
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Use Of Horn: Cultural Norm | Less frequent use compared to some countries | Reserved mainly for use in emergencies | |
| Emergency Vehicles: Protocol | Pull over to the right and stop if necessary | Pull over and stop if necessary |
When traversing the roads of Austria and France, drivers encounter distinct regulations and practices that shape their journey. From unique lane markings and speed limits to specific protocols for emergency services, understanding these variations is vital for ensuring a secure driving experience abroad. Explore the essential contrasts that can impact your travels in these two beautiful countries.
Alcohol
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits: Professional Drivers | 0.01% | 0.02% | |
| Limits: Underage Drivers | 0.01% | 0.00% | |
| Enforcement: Random Checks | Common | Common; checkpoints used regularly | |
| Enforcement: Fines | Substantial; varies by offense | Can be substantial |
Roundabouts
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Signaling: Entering | Signal if turning immediately upon entry | Signal when entering if turning right |
Emergency Services
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact: Traffic Police | 133 | 17 or through local police | |
| Contact: Roadside Assistance | 120 (ÖAMTC) or 123 (ARBÖ) | Check with your insurance provider or assistance service |
Penalties And Fines
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| Austria | France | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Fines: Speeding | Varies; €30 to €2,180, points on license | Varies; typically €68 to €3750, license points | |
| Common Fines: Alcohol | Varies; substantial fines, possible jail time | Varies; substantial fines, possible jail time, and license confiscation | |
| Common Fines: Seat Belts | Fines apply | €135 | |
| Common Fines: Phone Use | Fines apply, points on license | €135 | |
| Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation | Fines apply, points on license | €135 | |
| Payment: On The Spot | Common | Possible; fines can be paid directly to police for minor offenses | |
| Payment: Deadline | Varies; typically 14 days to pay | Varies; typically 45 days to pay |