APPENDIX - Portugal - page 417

Finally, you can buy CDW insurance from Travel Guard ($9/day plus a one-time
$3 service fee covers you up to $35,000, $250 deductible, tel. [phone],
www.travelguard.com ) . It's valid everywhere in Europe except the Republic of Ireland,
and some Italian car-rental companies refuse to honor it. Note that various US states differ
on which products and policies are available to their residents.
For more on car-rental insurance, see www.ricksteves.com/cdw .
Leasing
For trips of three weeks or more, consider leasing (which automatically includes zero-de-
ductible collision and theft insurance). By technically buying and then selling back the
car, you save lots of money on tax and insurance. Leasing provides you a brand-new car
with unlimited mileage and a 24-hour emergency assistance program. You can lease for
as little as 21 days to as long as six months. Car leases must be arranged from the US.
One of many reliable companies offering affordable lease packages is Europe by Car (US
tel. [phone], www.ebctravel.com ).
Driving
Drivers in Portugal encounter sparse traffic and very good roads connecting larger cities.
Road Rules: Be aware of typical European road rules. For example, many countries
require headlights to be turned on at all times, and it's generally illegal to drive while us-
ing your mobile phone without a hands-free headset. Seat belts are required by law in Por-
tugal. Ask your car-rental company about these rules, or check the US State Department
website ( www.travel.state.gov , click on “International Travel,” then specify your country
of choice and click “Traffic Safety and Road Conditions”).