Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Europcar
(
www.europcar.com
)
Hertz
(
www.hertz.it
)
Holiday Cars
(
www.holidaycars.com
)
Italy by Car
(
334 6481920;
www.italybycar.it
)
Maggiore
(
199 151120;
www.maggiore.it
)
MOTORCYCLE
Agencies throughout Italy rent motorbikes, ranging from small Vespas to larger touring bikes. Prices start at
around €35/150 per day/week for a 50cc scooter, or upwards of €80/400 per day/week for a 650cc motor-
cycle.
Road Rules
»
Cars drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left. Unless otherwise indicated, you must al-
ways give way to cars entering an intersection from your right.
»
Seatbelt use (front and rear) is required by law; violators are subject to an on-the-spot fine. Helmets are
required on all two-wheeled transport.
»
Headlights are compulsory day and night for all vehicles on the autostradas, and advisable for motorcycles
even on smaller roads.
»
In the event of a breakdown, a warning triangle is compulsory, as is use of an approved yellow or orange
safety vest if you leave your vehicle. Recommended accessories include a first-aid kit, spare-bulb kit and
fire extinguisher.
»
No licence is required to ride a scooter under 50cc but you should be aged 14 or over and you can't carry
passengers or ride on an autostrada. To ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc, you must be aged 16 or
over and have a licence (a car licence will do). For motorcycles over 125cc you need a motorcycle licence.
Do not venture onto the autostrada with a bike of less than 150cc.
»
Motorbikes can enter most restricted traffic areas in Italian cities, and traffic police often turn a blind eye
to motorcycles or scooters parked on footpaths.
»
Italy's blood-alcohol limit is 0.05%, and random breath tests occur. If you're involved in an accident
while under the influence, the penalties can be severe.
»
Speeding fines follow EU standards and are proportionate with the number of kilometres that you are
caught driving over the speed limit, reaching up to €3119 with a possible six- to 12-month suspension of
your driving licence.
Speed limits are as follows:
Autostradas
130-150km/h
Other main highways
110km/h
