Thinking of getting behind the wheel after a drink? Zero tolerance enforced in Czech Republic
January 5, 2010 -On January 1, 2010, the Czech Republic became the first country in the EU to introduce the obligation of a breathalyzer test any time the police pull you over. What better occasion for us to point out some of the rules to be respected on Czech roads, should you decide to travel the country by car.
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In addition to paying a fine, violators also face the possibility of having their driving license confiscated. The new measures were adopted in order to reduce the number of road fatalities, which remain among the highest in Europe.
Other important information
Don’t forget that if you are going to be traveling on Czech motorways, you will need to purchase a vignette (dálniční známka). You can buy these at the former border posts, at post offices, and many service stations. A year-long vignette costs CZK 1,200, a monthly sticker is CZK 350, and if you plan on traveling on the country’s motorways for 10 days or less, be prepared to pay CZK 250.
Finally, don’t forget that you must keep your headlights on all day. And if you don’t have automatic daytime running lights, don’t forget to turn off your lights when you park!
