Highway Protection Overseas
Every year, more than one million people are killed in road accidents worldwide, with many victims being bystanders. U.S. citizens traveling abroad are not immune. It is essential to understand local road laws and regulations before driving in another country.
Key questions to consider:
- Can you turn right on a red light?
- Are cell phones allowed while driving?
- What are the alcohol limits, and what penalties exist for violations?
Some countries enforce strict “zero-tolerance” policies for driving under the influence, with severe criminal consequences.
Road Security
The U.S. Department of State’s Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) provides guidance on personal safety and vehicle security while traveling abroad, including:
- Carjacking prevention
- Personal security at home, on the street, and while traveling
International Driving Permits (IDP)
Many countries do not recognize U.S. driver’s licenses. An International Driving Permit (IDP) translates your license into 10 foreign languages, facilitating legal driving abroad.
How to Apply for an IDP
- Must be 18 years or older
- Provide two passport-size photos
- Present a valid U.S. driver’s license
- Obtain from U.S. State Department-authorized organizations:
- AAA (American Automobile Association)
- National Auto Club
- Cost: Less than $20
Auto Insurance Abroad
- Car rental companies often provide auto insurance, but coverage may be limited.
- Most U.S. auto insurance policies do not cover driving abroad, except in neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico.
- Check with your insurer to determine coverage and purchase additional insurance if necessary.
- Ensure legal liability insurance when driving in foreign countries to avoid financial penalties.
Driving Abroad Safely
Recommendations from OSAC and the Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT):
- Carry both your IDP and U.S. driver’s license.
- Review the destination country’s driving laws in advance.
- Verify minimum and maximum driving age requirements.
- Check if special road permits or tolls are required.
- Always buckle up; some countries enforce penalties for non-compliance.
- Follow local signaling rules, e.g., honking before a sharp corner or using headlights when passing.
- If driving on the left side of the road, practice in a low-traffic area first.
- Know your route; carry a reliable road map and plan your path.
- Remain alert when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Reporting and Resources
International road safety information is available from:
- United Nations Road Safety Collaboration
- World Health Organization (WHO), World Report on Road Traffic Injury Prevention
- European Red Cross Road Safety Campaign
- U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration – International Programs
- Commission for Global Road Safety
Additional statistics and resources:
- OECD – Road safety statistics
- IRTAD (International Road Traffic and Accident Database)
- UN Economic Commission for Europe – Road Accident Statistics
- EU CARE database
- Monash University (Australia) – International Road Fatality Comparison
- Africa Road Safety Review – Bureau of Transportation
- ASIRT, International Road Federation, FIA Foundation, Global Road Safety Partnership
