Driving in Portugal

While driving in the Portugal and the Algarve it pays to be on guard constantly.

It would not be an exaggeration to say that driving standards put the country somewhere near the bottom of the European road safety league.

If you've never driven here before, or haven't visited in a while, please read and absorb my...
 

In Portugal, getting around on the roads can be a hazardous business, so let's look at what you should do to protect yourself (and your passengers, if you have any). Firstly, although you might think that driving takes place on the right-hand side the road, you'll discover that's just a theory!
 

Safe Driving - Risk from others

Bear in mind that your exposure to hazard while driving in the Algarve is greater than back home - and proceed accordingly. The risks that Portuguese drivers take when overtaking are legendary. Driving too close to the car in front is also common, and can be distracting if you're the driver of the car in front and unused to such close attention!

My strong advice is - drive defensively.

This would include expecting the unexpected, which is rarely disappointed. Watch out for cars parked thoughtlessly and even dangerously. The common wisdom seems to be that switching on the hazard warning lights makes intrusive parking okay.

While there are good roads, they do seem to be dug up often and sometimes the repaired surface isn't up to scratch. In particular, roads in country areas can either be in fantastically good condition or virtually impassable. Some are narrow and don't have passing places, which can mean a lengthy reversing procedure by one party when two cars meet!

Safe Driving - Risk from your own actions

If, while driving in Portugal, you're caught speeding or using a mobile phone at the wheel, you will be fined on the spot. (And no, it didn't happen to me, but some folk I know are now older and wiser).

Do not try drinking and driving in Portugal. The legal limit for blood alcohol is lower than in the UK [only 20mg per 100ml maximum]. Alcohol is easy to obtain and cheap, but beware - if you are charged with drink-driving, you could well be cooling your heels in the custody of the local constabulary until you appear in court.

The Portuguese authorities may have been stung into action by their reputation for inadequate traffic policing - and by suggestions that the poor standard of driving in Portugal exists because of police apathy. So beware...

Police patrols are on the increase, and they can be pretty hot on poor driving, speeding and alcohol offences. If you are caught and charged, the penalties may be heavy enough to ruin your holiday.

Seat belts must be worn by front-seat occupants, and by those in the rear seats, if provided. But, note that children under 12 years of age may not occupy front seats.
 

Speed Limits

One of the reasons for the poor accident figures is probably the high (relative to UK) speed limits. (And the widespread flouting of them).

Driving in Portugal means speed limits of:

Motor Insurance

This is compulsory, so remember to check that it comes with your vehicle when you hire a car.
 

Driving Licence

A valid EU licence is OK for any length of stay, while a valid non-EU licence can be used for up to six months.
 

Traffic Accidents

In the event of a serious road accident, wait for the local police to arrive. Meanwhile, ask for the other driver's (or drivers') details, including name, address, insurance company details and policy number. And insist (politely) of the police that they take statements from both (or all) parties - and that everyone involved is breathalysed.
 

Wow, you might be thinking, why don't I just stay at home - at least that way I'll live to enjoy my grandchildren!

Well now...

            ...the last thing I want to do is scare you off visiting the beautiful Algarve, but it never hurts to understand the risks to which you're exposing yourself. I've never had an accident while holidaying there, but then, I take my own advice and always employ defensive driving.

It's not wholesale carnage on the roads, so I hope that's not how I made it sound. And if you drive with increased vigilance as a result of these warnings, you're likelier to enjoy (intact) your visit to the wonderful Algarve. 

Shared experiences:
I'd be grateful if you would let me know (via my trusty Algarve Best form) of any safety tips from your own experiences of driving in Portugal and the Algarve that you think would help others. If I use them to update my information, I'll credit your contribution (as well as adopting any new techniques, of course)!
 

In the meantime, subscribe to my monthly newsletter, Algarve Beach LIfe News, by clicking on the link below ("For Lovers of Algarve Beach Life") or on the button at top left ("Subscribe to ABLN") -- I'll keep you updated, every month, about the new information I have added about the glorious Algarve.
 

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