Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Fuel & Spare Parts
Petrol stations are very common and frequent on main roads. Innovative, shoestring re-
pairs are widespread; genuine spare parts are not quite so unless you have an ageing
German vehicle, a Daewoo or a Lada.
Insurance
Third-party insurance is compulsory, which will normally be covered by a 'Green Card' In-
ternational Motor Insurance Certificate. Hire companies provide their own vehicle insur-
ance.
Road Conditions
Major roads between Kyiv and regional centres tend to be in fairly good condition, but
some routes linking towns and cities in the regions, especially in the west (roads in the
Carpathians are the worst we've ever seen anywhere) have deteriorated almost to the
point of nonexistence. Soviet-era bridges are also beginning to fail, especially across the
Dnister River, causing chaos and long diversions. There are no plans or funds to repair
any of this essential infrastructure.
Road Rules
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Traffic drives on the right.
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Unless otherwise indicated, speed limits are 60km/h in towns, 90km/h on major roads
and 110km/h on dual carriageways.
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There's a zero-tolerance policy on drink-driving.
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Believe it or not, it's actually a criminal offence not to wear a seat belt (although every-
body completely ignores this rule).
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You must slow down to 50km/h when passing DAI road blocks on the exit roads from
towns and cities.
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The DAI have the power to stop you but not to issue on-the-spot fines. Always ask for a
'protokol'
(police report; this normally gets rid of even the peskiest traffic cop).
Hitching
Hitching is never entirely safe, and we don't recommend it. Travellers who hitch should
understand that they are taking a small but potentially serious risk.
You simply can't hitchhike around Ukraine for free. Hitching a ride is common, but it's
necessary to pay drivers for the privilege. Given the prevalence of unofficial taxis in
