The Greeks seem disregarded for their safety to an extent we have not seen in Northern Europe - drivers and pedestrians alike. For example, see Greek grannies walking down the middle of the road with their shopping. And don't forget that to rent a car in Greece you will need an International Driver Permit or International Driver's License, if you do not have a driver's license from the EU or EEA country.
Okay, so the pavements are so bad in some places that you have to walk on the road, but it is necessary for pedestrians to have their hands on the head for traffic? The seatbelt is rarely worn and children can often be seen jumping up and down on the back seat, as if they were playing in their room, or getting married between two adults on a motorcycle. There is a lot of "this will never happen for me" mentality, but statistics show that unfortunately, it happens every day.
I always wear a seatbelt, whether I'm driving or I'm in someone else's car. It often takes a weird look from taxi drivers, as if you are questioning their ability to drive in some way!
Okay, so the pavements are so bad in some places that you have to walk on the road, but it is necessary for pedestrians to have their hands on the head for traffic? The seatbelt is rarely worn and children can often be seen jumping up and down on the back seat, as if they were playing in their room, or getting married between two adults on a motorcycle. There is a lot of "this will never happen for me" mentality, but statistics show that unfortunately, it happens every day.
I always wear a seatbelt, whether I'm driving or I'm in someone else's car. It often takes a weird look from taxi drivers, as if you are questioning their ability to drive in some way!
Some road tips
You should always keep in mind that you may be the only person on the road who actually did the road test and passed. Just assume that no one but you know how to drive and you have to make up for their lack of ability by driving more defensively.
Do not assume that when the traffic light turns green to amber, the cars will slow down because the opposite can happen.
On motorbikes who often walk between traffic and cars do not follow any lanes or rules.
As with most major cities, traffic congestion can be a problem in Athens, so expect motorbikes accordingly and while you're waiting
Watch out for people who open their doors without having to park or double park. expect the unexpected
To rent a car in Greece all you need is a valid native drivers license from your home country. But according to Greek law you need a valid US license as well as an international driving permit or international driving license.
Leaving Athens by car on the Friday before the holiday weekend and coming back after the holiday weekend is a nightmare, no matter where you are going. This is especially true in Easter and early August when many Athenians take their holidays. If you can stay in Athens and do it when everyone is returning.
always wear your seat belt. If you have toddlers, ask the rental agency for a car seat before leaving the house and if they don't have one, bring one. Children under 18 are not allowed to drive. Children under 10 should sit in the back seat.
Do not assume that when the traffic light turns green to amber, the cars will slow down because the opposite can happen.
On motorbikes who often walk between traffic and cars do not follow any lanes or rules.
As with most major cities, traffic congestion can be a problem in Athens, so expect motorbikes accordingly and while you're waiting
Watch out for people who open their doors without having to park or double park. expect the unexpected
To rent a car in Greece all you need is a valid native drivers license from your home country. But according to Greek law you need a valid US license as well as an international driving permit or international driving license.
Leaving Athens by car on the Friday before the holiday weekend and coming back after the holiday weekend is a nightmare, no matter where you are going. This is especially true in Easter and early August when many Athenians take their holidays. If you can stay in Athens and do it when everyone is returning.
always wear your seat belt. If you have toddlers, ask the rental agency for a car seat before leaving the house and if they don't have one, bring one. Children under 18 are not allowed to drive. Children under 10 should sit in the back seat.
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