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The Institute for European Traffic Law has already discussed Italy. As a reminder, it should be noted that the Italians can auction cars involved in traffic violations. Of course, it is also possible to seize a car in Germany, but it is not usually auctioned off. Therefore, anyone caught driving in Italy with a blood alcohol level of 1.5 or more has to worry not only about losing their driving licence, but also about losing their car. However, this only applies to the owner and driver of the vehicle. The first stage of confiscation is a substantial fine or imprisonment. Not much better.

Motorcyclists are no better off when it comes to helmet violations. If they are caught not wearing a helmet, their motorcycle will be impounded for 60 days. Incidentally, special attention must be paid to tyres in Italy. Although it is possible to drive with winter tyres in the summer, it is not advisable. All-season tyres, on the other hand, should not be a problem. However, they can only be used if they have the correct speed index, as stated in Part I of the registration certificate. This can be identified by the last letter in the size designation.

The no-parking regulations in Greece are also rather peculiar. No-parking signs with a vertical line in the middle only apply in odd-numbered months, such as May. Those with two lines apply in even-numbered months, such as June. Anyone caught violating these or other traffic regulations who does not pay within 10 days will be charged double the amount. Therefore, if you pay after 14 days, you will not pay 200 euros, but 400 euros. In Spain, however, the fine is reduced by 50% if paid within 20 days.

Great Britain, on the other hand, handles it differently. Here, a ticket is only valid if you have seen the law enforcement officer wearing their proper uniform, complete with hat.

In France, it is possible to pay fines immediately, even at a tobacconist's. Those who fail to do so risk a higher penalty.

Austria and Switzerland are also stricter. The Austrian police do not respond to minor offences, which they define as minor property damage. Anyone who calls them anyway, just to be on the safe side, risks a 'blue light tax' of €36. Furthermore, 'blue zones' or short-term parking zones must be observed; these are only indicated by signs at the beginning and end of the zone. Nothing new, but worth mentioning are the vignettes. It's better to buy them in advance for your holiday than risk a €120 fine.

The Swiss are also unforgiving. Anyone caught significantly speeding in built-up areas (i.e. driving at least 40 km/h over the speed limit) or on the motorway (i.e. driving 80 km/h over the speed limit) will be imprisoned for at least one year and have their vehicle confiscated. Not to mention the exorbitant fine, which can often be as high as 10,000 Swiss francs.

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