Car expert warns UK tourists about overlooked safety rule that’s costing drivers hundreds
Planning a European road trip in a convertible should sound like the perfect summer adventure. But UK drivers heading across the Channel face a maze of unfamiliar regulations that vary from country to country. What might seem like harmless holiday driving back home could land you with hefty fines abroad.
Now this car expert is warning tourists about one costly mistake in particular that’s catching out convertible drivers across the EU. Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for used car parts, has seen first hand how small oversights can lead to big problems for drivers.
“UK tourists often don’t realise that European traffic authorities are particularly strict about what they consider ‘safe driving practices’,” explains Urbonas. “What looks like a carefree holiday drive to you might look like careless driving to local police.”
Urbonas is now sharing his knowledge about this common but expensive mistake, along with simple steps drivers can take to protect themselves from unexpected fines.
The Hidden Danger of Driving Convertibles in Europe
The mistake that’s costing drivers hundreds? Failing to secure loose items inside their convertible. While it might seem harmless to toss your sunhat on the back seat or leave shopping bags unsecured, European traffic authorities view this very differently.
Under EU road safety regulations, any loose object that could fly out of a convertible or distract the driver can result in fines ranging from €200 to €600, depending on the perceived danger level. Authorities in some countries may impose even steeper penalties if they believe the violation created a serious safety risk.
“The fines vary significantly based on how dangerous officials consider your actions,” says Urbonas. “A hat that blows off and lands on the roadway could be seen as creating a hazard for other drivers, while loose bags that could obstruct your view are treated as a direct safety violation.”
What Counts as Unsafe in a Convertible?
European traffic police are trained to spot several common violations that convertible drivers often overlook, which Urbonas lists here:
- Loose Bags and Backpacks: Any bag placed on rear seats without proper restraints can shift during driving, potentially blocking mirrors or flying out at speed. Even a small handbag can become a projectile in sudden stops.
- Unsecured Clothing and Accessories: Scarves, hats, and loose jackets are prime culprits. Not only can they blow out and create road hazards, but they can also wrap around the driver’s face or arms, creating dangerous distractions.
- Flying Personal Items: Sunglasses, phones, maps, and other small objects left unsecured can easily become airborne. If these items land on other vehicles or create distractions for following drivers, you could face significant penalties.
- Shopping and Tourist Purchases: Those holiday souvenirs and duty-free bags might seem innocent, but loose shopping bags can quickly become safety hazards in open-top driving conditions.
Understanding EU Road Safety Laws
The strict approach stems from three key legal principles that govern European road safety: driver control, visibility, and loose cargo regulations.
Driver control laws require motorists to maintain full command of their vehicle at all times. Any object that could interfere with steering, braking, or gear changes violates these regulations. For convertible drivers, this extends to items that might blow around the cabin.
Visibility requirements mandate clear sightlines in all directions. Loose items that could obstruct mirrors, windows, or the driver’s direct view are automatic violations. The open nature of convertibles makes this particularly relevant, as wind can quickly move unsecured objects into critical sightlines.
Loose cargo regulations treat any unsecured item as potential road debris. Unlike enclosed vehicles where objects stay contained, convertibles allow loose items to escape and potentially cause accidents or property damage.
Protecting Yourself From Fines
Urbonas recommends several simple precautions that can save drivers hundreds in fines:
- Use Cargo Nets: Install mesh barriers behind seats to catch any items that might shift during driving. These inexpensive accessories can prevent loose objects from moving around the cabin or flying out.
- Secure Hats and Scarves: Use chin straps for hats or tie scarves securely. Better yet, store them in enclosed compartments when driving with the top down.
- Boot Storage: Place all bags, shopping, and personal items in the boot or enclosed storage areas. Never leave anything loose on seats, even for short drives.
- Seat Barriers: Consider installing clear barriers or nets between front and rear seats to contain any items that might shift during travel.
“The key is thinking ahead,” advises Urbonas. “Before you put the top down, ask yourself: could this item move, fall, or fly out? If the answer is yes, secure it properly or put it away.”
Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, commented:
“Convertibles face extra scrutiny under EU road safety laws because of their unique risk profile. Unlike enclosed vehicles where loose items stay contained, convertibles allow objects to become airborne and potentially cause secondary accidents. European traffic authorities have seen cases where flying debris from convertibles has damaged other vehicles or caused drivers to swerve dangerously.
“The regulations are designed to protect everyone on the road. As someone who works extensively across European automotive markets, I’ve seen how seriously different countries take these violations.
“My advice is simple: treat your convertible like you’re transporting cargo, because legally, that’s exactly what you’re doing with any loose items. A few minutes spent securing your belongings before each drive can save you hundreds in fines and ensure your European adventure stays memorable for all the right reasons.”