If you’re planning to drive a car overseas, learning the local rules of the road is not only helpful, it’s essential.

The first rule of thumb is that pretty much anywhere in the world, drivers entering a roundabout have to give way to traffic.

That’s the case in Europe, England, Australia, New Zealand, and a host of other countries.

If you’re driving on a European motorway like the autobahn or the autostrada, the fast lane is designated for passing, not just fast driving.

And, like in the U.S., if someone approaches behind you flashing their lights, it’s a sign to move over right away.

In England (as in the U.S.), if someone is coming in the opposite direction and flashes their headlights, it usually just means there is a police car ahead.

In southeast Asia, it’s an unspoken rule that bigger vehicles have the right of way. And chances are there’ll be bicycles on the road, but don’t assume they’ll see you.

And in rural parts of South America, if you see a tree branch or rock in the middle of the road, it may mean there’s a wreck or mudslide up ahead – basically it means there’s trouble down the road, so SLOW DOWN.

Get more driving advice in our Car Rental section.

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