When it comes to getting around in a new country, it can be
a very different experience compared to driving at home. Whether you’re jumping
on a bus or you’re navigating the roads yourself, there can be a big difference
in the time it takes to get to different locations and the local
interpretations of the various driving laws can make things a little more
complicated. There are a number of different driving and traffic customs that
you can find in Cyprus, which will not only affect how you drive in the country,
but also affect freight forwarding or other services that require use of the
roads.
Driving Regulations
There are a number of driving regulations in Cyprus that are
similar if not identical to driving regulations in almost all European
counties. However, driving regulations are not strictly enforced and therefore
behaviour whilst in traffic and on the roads can be somewhat intimidating to
new drivers. Public transport including the Public Transport Bus Service in
Cyprus is impressive, with night buses, rural buses and intercity buses around
the airports and beyond being some of the easiest forms of travel around the
country, more so than driving.
Driving Under The
Influence
The legislations for this offence are very strict, with the
legal limit being just 0.22 mg per ml – significantly lower than it is in the UK
and many other European countries. This is one of the most important things to
consider when you are on holiday or are a recent expat to Cyprus. There are a
number of fines for drunk driving, which include:
€100 and 0-2 penalty points for being 0.023 – 0.035 BAC %
over the limit
€200 and 2-4 penalty points for being 0.036 – 0.055 BAC % over the limit
€300 and 3-6 penalty points for being 0.056 – 0.070 BAC % over the limit
If you are more than 0.071% over, you could be subject to
prison or a fine between €150 and €400 alongside 3-6 points on the license.
Speed Limits
The speed limits in Cyprus are clearly marked and these are
very similar to many other European countries, with speed limits being
considered in kilometres per hour. This is also important for highly
experienced freight forwarders to know if you are shipping goods to the
country as this could interfere with the expected arrival times of transported
cargo travelling through Cyprus.
Cyprus is a beautiful country to travel through and whether
you’re relocating or simply visiting for a few days on business, you’ll find it
a wonderful place to see. If you are moving to the country, then it is
important to know all of the traffic regulations and the behaviour of drivers
in the country. It is also important for anyone you are doing business with in
the country to know this information, such as a freight forwarder if you are
shipping goods or relocating. If you are on holiday however, it may be more
convenient for you to use public transport in order to get around the country.
Either way, understanding the traffic customs in the country can be
exceptionally beneficial.