What To Know About Driving in Austria
Whether you're driving a car in Austria for the first time or the fifteenth, it's always sensible to brush up on the rules. Here's what you need to know...
Q: What side of the road should I drive on in Austria?
A: Motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left.
Q: Who has right of way?
A: Vehicles in priority roads (marked with a yellow diamond) have right of way. Emergency vehicles with flashing lights have priority, even if they are not using their sirens. Trams also have right of way.
Q: What are the speed limits on Austrian roads?
A: The speed limit on highways in Austria is 130km/h. On country roads it’s 100km/h and in urban areas 50km/hr.
Q: How much alcohol am I allowed to drink when driving in Austria?
A: The maximum blood alcohol level is 0.05% - so it's safer not to drink at all if you're driving.
Q: What should I do if my car breaks down?
A: In case of car breakdown or accidents, 112 is the general emergency number. 133 connects to the police while 144 is the number to call for an ambulance.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Blue zones are free parking spaces where you can leave your car for up to 90 minutes. If parking in a blue zone, you will need a parking disc set to the time you arrived. Discs are usually included with your rental or you can buy one from a petrol station. It is prohibited to park in front of yellow and red lines and within three metres of a fire hydrant.
Q: Do I need snow chains during the winter?
A: Snow chains must be fitted to all cars between November 1 and April 15 - but any hire car will automatically be kitted out with chains and / or all-season tyres during this period.
Q: What should I be aware of if travelling with children?
A: All children under 12 must travel in an appropriate child seat. These can be hired when booking a car.
Q: What else should I know about driving in Austria?
A: Seatbelts must be worn by all passengers. Traffic lights flash green when they are about to turn to orange, warning you to prepare to stop.