Driving In Austria: On Which Side Of The Road?

Driving in Austria can be daunting, especially if you're used to driving on the left side of the road. In Austria, they drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left. This can take some adjustment if you're not used to it. Austria's road rules are generally the same as in the rest of the European Union, but there are some quirks to be aware of. For example, Austrian motorists tend to drive reasonably fast, especially on Autobahns, but thanks to strict regulations, they generally obey road rules.

Driving on the right, overtaking on the left

Driving in Austria can be a unique experience, and it's important to remember that they drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left. This can be a significant adjustment for those used to driving on the left, such as in the UK. Keeping this in mind is crucial for maintaining safety on Austrian roads. Here are some essential paragraphs to guide you through "Driving on the right, overtaking on the left" in Austria:

Driving on the Right:

When driving in Austria, always remember to keep to the right-hand side of the road. This is the standard protocol in most European countries and is an essential rule to follow. Driving on the right means you will be driving on the opposite side of the road than you would in left-hand traffic countries. Adjusting to this can take some time, so it's important to stay focused and vigilant.

Overtaking on the Left:

When you need to overtake another vehicle in Austria, you should do so on the left. This is the standard procedure in right-hand traffic countries. Indicators are crucial when overtaking to signal your intentions clearly to other drivers. It is important to use indicators for overtaking or changing lanes, as it helps maintain order and safety on the roads. Keep in mind that overtaking is forbidden on or near pedestrian crossings and when it involves crossing a continuous white line.

Lane Discipline:

Maintaining proper lane discipline is essential when driving on the right and overtaking on the left. Stay in the right-hand lane unless you are overtaking. The left lane is reserved for passing slower vehicles, and you should return to the right lane as soon as it is safe to do so. This ensures a smooth flow of traffic and prevents accidents.

Speed Limits:

Austria has different speed limits for various types of roads. In residential and urban areas, the speed limit is typically 50 km/h unless posted otherwise. On freeways (Bundesstraße), the speed limit is 100 km/h, while highways (Autobahn) have a speed limit of 130 km/h. Adhering to these speed limits is crucial for safety and avoiding speeding fines.

Road Rules:

Austria has strict road rules that all drivers must follow. Some essential rules to remember include always wearing a seatbelt, using hands-free kits for mobile phones, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. It is also important to carry the necessary safety equipment, such as warning signs, reflective clothing, and a first aid kit.

Driving Culture:

Austrian motorists generally adhere to road rules, but it's important to be aware of local driving cultures. For example, drivers in Austria tend to drive at relatively high speeds, especially on Autobahns. Be prepared for varying driving styles and remain cautious and attentive at all times.

Speed limits and speed cameras

Austria enforces strict speed limits on its highways, and although you may not see any law enforcement monitoring speeds, there are speed cameras in place, and you will receive a ticket in the mail if you are caught speeding. Speed cameras are automated tools used by law enforcement to monitor and enforce traffic laws. They detect and record vehicles travelling over the speed limit.

The standard speed limits for private vehicles without trailers are as follows:

• Outside built-up areas: 100 km/h for cars or vans towing a light trailer of up to 750 kg; 70 km/h for cars or vans towing a trailer of over 750 kg; 80 km/h for cars or vans towing a trailer of over 750 kg where the combined weight is not more than 3.5 tonnes; 100 km/h for passenger cars or vans towing a light trailer of less than 750 kg; 80 km/h for cars or vans towing a trailer over 750 kg, and 100 km/h for cars or vans towing a trailer of over 750 kg where the combined weight is not more than 3.5 tonnes.
• Inside built-up areas: 50 km/h.

It's important to note that speed limits may vary and be adjusted by signs. Additionally, the speed limit reduces to 50 km/h if visibility is less than 150 feet due to poor weather conditions.

Speed cameras are present in major cities and regions across Austria, including Vienna, Graz, Linz, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. Staying informed about the locations of these cameras can help you avoid speeding fines.

Drinking and driving

In Austria, motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. If you're visiting Austria and planning to drive, it's important to be aware of the country's drink-driving laws and regulations. Here are some key points to remember:

Blood Alcohol Content Limits:

• The general limit for drivers of private vehicles is 0.049% or 0.5 g/l.
• For professional drivers (bus, coach, HGV, or public service vehicle) and novice drivers (with less than two years of experience), the limit is lower at 0.01% or 0.1 g/l.
• These limits may be reduced to 0.1 mg/100 ml or below in specific circumstances.

Breathalyser Tests:

• Random breathalyser tests are permitted at roadside police checks.
• Austria conducts a significant number of alcohol checks, with around 1.8 million checks carried out in 2019.
• The alcohol level in your breath, as measured by a breathalyser, can be doubled to estimate your blood alcohol level.

Sanctions and Penalties:

• If your blood alcohol level is between 0.05% and 0.079%, a fine will be imposed.
• At or above 0.08%, you may face severe fines or a driving ban in Austria.
• Driving under the influence can result in heavy fines, licence revocation, and a possible driving ban in Austria for visitors.
• In some cases, drink-driving may be considered a criminal offence, leading to additional legal consequences.

Rehabilitation Programmes:

• Austria has implemented rehabilitation and Alcohol Interlock programmes for offenders.
• These programmes include the installation of an alcohol interlock device in the participant's vehicle, regular appointments with a mentor, and completion certificates.
• Successful completion of the programme allows participants to reclaim their unrestricted driving licence.

Remember, drinking and driving is dangerous and can lead to serious consequences. Always follow local laws and regulations, and if you plan to consume alcohol, arrange for alternative transportation methods or designate a sober driver.

Seatbelt laws

In Austria, it is compulsory for all occupants of a motor vehicle to wear a seatbelt. This includes the driver, front-seat passengers, and anyone travelling in the rear seats. The fine for failing to wear a seatbelt is €35.

Children under 14 years old and less than 1.35m in height must use special seat belts adapted to their size or special child restraints, both in the front and rear of the vehicle. If a child is over 1.35m in height, they are allowed to use a 3-point belt without a special booster seat, as long as the belt does not come across their neck or throat.

Seat belts are not compulsory for drivers while reversing or parking, people who cannot use seat belts due to their size or disability, drivers of emergency or official vehicles, and passengers in buses who need to leave their seat for a short time.

Mobile phone usage

In Austria, the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless a hands-free kit is used. This means that you can only make or receive phone calls while driving if you are using a hands-free kit. The use of mobile phones for text messages, social media, or surfing the internet is forbidden while driving, even if a hands-free kit is used.

The law in Austria considers a hands-free kit to be an accessory that allows drivers to make phone calls without using either hand. Both fixed and mobile hands-free kits are permitted, but they are subject to different requirements. Fixed hands-free kits must include an attachment that allows the driver to secure their mobile phone within the cabin and use all the phone's main functions with one hand while driving without adjusting their body position. Mobile hands-free kits must be connected by a cable of sufficient length or wirelessly, so any cable does not run through the driver's field of vision.

If you are caught using your mobile phone illegally while driving in Austria, you will be fined 100 euros. If you refuse to pay the fine, you will be formally charged, and the relevant authority can impose a fine of up to 140 euros. If this fine is not paid, the authority can impose a custodial sentence of up to 24 hours.

It is worth noting that if your vehicle is stationary, such as at a red traffic light or in a traffic jam, you can use your mobile phone without a hands-free kit. However, if you are in "stop-start" traffic, you must use a hands-free kit. Additionally, you are allowed to pick up your phone if it falls onto the floor of the cabin while driving, as long as you keep one hand on the steering wheel and your gaze on the road ahead at all times.

Frequently asked questions