New Poll Finds British Holidaymakers Are Scared to Drive Overseas

February 4, 2011 – Carrentals.co.uk conducted a poll and found that British drivers are mostly stressed about driving on holiday because of the unfamiliar roads, unsure of the road regulations and laws, and driving on the opposite side of the road to the UK.

Car hire comparison site, Carrentals.co.uk found that the amount of people who are stressed when driving abroad in certain situations account for; driving on the right hand side of the road (10%); 26% get stressed about the actions of local drivers; 47% are concerned about not knowing the area; and 14% find not knowing the rules of the roads stressful.

Spokesperson and managing director Gareth Robinson, of Carrentals.co.uk said: "Hiring a car when on holiday can be a nervous time for some people, but the way to counteract that is to look at a map before setting off, and giving yourself enough time to get around can make it less stressful. Book the hire car early to get the best prices and that can help it be the most economical way of getting around over the holiday.

"Insurance can drive up the cost of a hire car, but what many people don't realise is that you can insure it using a 3rd party insurer. Hire car companies have expensive insurance and it isn't always comprehensive, but this cost can be lowered by having your own policy. Have the documents to hand when collecting the hire car."

To help Brits abroad to stop getting stressed, Carrentals.co.uk has created a list of ways to help:

- Research before – By practising in a left hand drive car, some find it helps them adapt to driving on the opposite side. Take the time to read up on the road signs, rules and regulations for that country, particularly if it's your first time there.

- Route planning – make the effort to learn the routes for your holiday so you don't get stressed. By reading a map or utilising a sat nav, you will find the journey all the more pleasant. If you're travelling alone, a sat nav makes a great choice.

- Take frequent breaks – take frequent stops and break up the journey, this way you can see other attractions and stop at scenic view points along the way. By stopping you also stay fresh for the journey.

- Preparation – It's a legal requirement to have your driving license with you at all times in most foreign countries, and it's a good idea to have your insurance policy and rental documents also. If you're in wintry driving conditions then a torch, blanket and de-icing gear are useful.

- Cover yourself – Insurance for hire cars
in New Zealand, Australia, the UK, Europe and South Africa normally comes with Collision Damage Waiver and Third Party Liability. In other parts of the world there is no insurance therefore it is a good idea to cover yourself with a 3rd party insurer. Refundable Excess can help you claim back any damage charges you might ensue.

Compare hire car deals from the biggest brands in the industry at Carrentals.co.uk including Budget, Alamo, Holiday Autos, Auto Europe and Sixt. Visit www.carrentals.co.uk for more details.