09:42:24 Thursday, 25th April

Do you like to drive when on holiday? Here at Spain-Lanzarote, we know many holidaymakers like to do just that. Hire a car and go out exploring... Lanzarote is a great island for this kind of adventure.

So before you get behind the wheel, we thought it would be helpful to give you a few details about driving in the Canary Islands, which are a Spanish territory so follow the same rules when it comes to driving.

You need to know some of the regulations. Firstly, they drive on the right and give way to traffic coming from the left on a roundabout. Overtaking is also on the left. Just like everywhere else, it is very important to stick to the speed limits, which are up to 110 km/h on motorways (100 km/h when driving normally and 110 km/h if overtaking) and 40 km/h in residential or built-up areas (unless otherwise stated). Take it steady when driving in mountainous areas, watch out for sharp bends, sudden turns and narrow, bumpy roads. If in doubt, take it nice and slowly.

All passengers must wear seatbelts at all times, do not use your phone, GPS or any other equipment while driving. You must keep focused, especially on unfamiliar roads. Avoid drinking alcohol and simply behave in exactly the same manner as you would when driving at home. Make sure you have your driving licence on you at all times as well as the car rental documents. Moped or motorcyclists must wear a helmet.

Certain driving offences are subject to on-the-spot fines given out by police who will provide you with a ticket that states how much you need to pay straight away. Please bear in mind that everyone is subject to these types of fines, including tourists.

Try as much as possible to use car parks, this way it is easier to avoid any misunderstandings about where you are legally allowed to park. As a rule, motorists are not allowed to leave vehicles on white, yellow or blue lines. Larger resorts like Playa BlancaPuerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise have many car parks as well as areas offering free parking.

Occasionally, you may see cars parked on roundabouts and zebra crossings but don’t do it yourself, it’s against the law. Some drivers don’t use indicators so watch out if someone suddenly brakes and turns in front of you. Also, if you park in front of dustbins your car could get towed away, as the bin collectors empty rubbish at all hours. There are no signs indicating you shouldn't park there, so be warned.

So now you know the basics, are you ready to get a great deal on car rental? Discount Rent A Car is a leading company within the Canary Islands with thousands of high-quality cars to choose from, all at fantastic prices. Get a quote straight away.