Local Speed Limits
The speed limit in Greece according to the Road Traffic Code is 50 km in the city and residential areas, 80 km on expressways, and 100-120 on highways. You must always obey the posted speeds on the signs along the road you are driving on. The speed limit is monitored in many areas by satellite and video cameras, so be extra careful.
Seatbelts
We recommend and advise all passengers of the rental car to wear seat belts. Children must be seated in child seats, which can be requested by E-Miniliving staff, and restrained by seat belts. Despite the technological progress in car safety and especially with the use of airbags, the use of seat belts is still considered necessary. The Traffic Police carry out strict checks for the use of seat belts and impose corresponding fines as well as the withdrawal of the driver’s license.
Don’t drink and drive
Be careful not to break the Road Traffic Code by driving under the influence of alcohol or any other substance. The permissible limit of alcohol in the blood is 0.05 %. If you exceed it you will pay a fine. If your blood alcohol content is over 0.08 %, this is considered a criminal offense and you will be taken into custody. Random breathalyzers are very common, especially late at night in the form of unscheduled checks.
Park only in permitted parking areas
Park only in designated parking areas, i.e. where parking is permitted. If you park in prohibited areas, you will receive an illegal parking ticket from the Traffic or Municipal Police and your car will probably have its plates removed or towed away. Do not park in a disabled parking space. Park your rental car in a safe place, where there is enough space for other cars to pass, and also in controlled parking areas, with the issuance of a corresponding ticket.
Know the traffic signs and how to read maps
Most signs are in Greek and English so they can give the right directions.
Mobile Phone Use
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, explicitly or implicitly, in all EU countries, as it has been shown to increase the risk of fatal accidents.
In Greece, the use of hands-free equipment or equipment (Bluetooth) that allows hands-free communication is acceptable. The use of a mobile phone while on the move is only permitted when it is placed in a special position for hands-free listening or when it is used with a wireless communication system.
Emergency Phone
Throughout Europe, as in Greece, the emergency number is 112 (from a mobile phone) and you can call for free when there is an emergency.
Tips for eco-driving
- Avoid pressing the accelerator too much and prefer to press it with your foot as little as possible: the deeper the pedal sinks, the more battery is consumed.
- Avoid any unnecessary accelaration. The new electric MINI converts energy from braking into electricity, using the engine as an alternator, and returns part of the energy to the battery every time you slow down.