Millions of Britons could face chaos when travelling this summer with new data finding that there is a distinct lack of awareness about how to deal with an emergency abroad and with number plate rules after Brexit.
Research from RAC Europe has found that 62 per cent of British drivers do not know the correct number to call to get help in an emergency.
Only 38 per cent of people surveyed said they knew to call 112 in the event of an emergency when in the European Union.
A third of drivers said they would have “absolutely no idea” about what number to call if they were to require urgent help on the continent.
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Many Britons might be caught out by not knowing the emergency numbers in Europe
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One in 10 (12 per cent) said they would call 999 – the UK’s emergency service number – while 11 per cent falsely identified 111 as the correct number, despite it being the NHS non-emergency line.
Experts are now warning that motorists could find themselves in even deeper trouble if they do not check the correct numbers before heading on holiday.
Shockingly four per cent believe that 101 – the non-emergency police line – is the right number in Europe. A further three per cent said they should dial 911, despite this only working in North America.
Rod Dennis, spokesperson for RAC Europe, said: “Before drivers venture to the continent for their holidays this summer, it’s important they make sure they are displaying the UK identifier on the back of their vehicles, whether that’s on their car’s number plate or a sticker.
“They should also know the right number to ring if they need to call out the emergency services while they’re away.
“Every second counts in the event of a dangerous collision, so getting through to the emergency services first time round could quite literally be the difference between life and death.”
The RAC data also found that 42 per cent of drivers heading to Europe this year will use a “UK” sticker on the back of their cars.
As of September 2021, it became a legal requirement for motorists to ensure their vehicle contains a “UK” identifier when travelling abroad.
Almost one-quarter of drivers said they would use an outdated “GB” sticker or lettering used prior to Brexit, while around 16 per cent will instead opt for the UK lettering on their number plate.
Thousands of drivers could be hammered with fines for not carrying any sort of country identifier at all, which is against the rules and could see them penalised.
The RAC is calling on motorists to check all road rules before heading off as they can easily avoid fines by researching ahead of their trip.
A “UK” car sticker can be picked up from most major motoring stores or online marketplaces for as little as £1.50.
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Motorists should be aware of the UK and GB identifier rules
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Dennis continued, saying that it was vital for drivers to ensure they have the correct stickers, especially with the new rules around “UK” and “GB” stickers potentially catching people out.
He added: “Any outdated GB lettering must be removed or covered up with a UK sticker instead. A UK sticker only costs a few pounds online which is a small price to pay to avoid a hefty fine.”
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