1. Which side of the road should I drive on in Ravenna and the surrounding country?
In Italy, including Ravenna, driving is on the right-hand side of the road and overtaking on the left.
2. What is the general speed limit in Ravenna and in the country?
Speed limits vary depending on the type of road: 50km/h in built up areas, 90km/h on minor out-of-town roads, 110km/h on major out-of-town roads and 130km/h on motorways. These are general guidelines and can be modified by signs.
3. Do I need an international driver's license to drive in Ravenna?
If you are an EU citizen, you don't need an international driving license. A valid license from your country of origin will suffice. If you are from outside of the EU, you may need an International Driver's Permit (IDP) along with your valid national driver's license.
4. Can I expect any toll gates when driving in and around Ravenna?
Yes, Italy has a network of toll roads, including the highways near Ravenna. It's important you're prepared to pay for these either in cash or by card.
5. Are there many speed cameras in Ravenna?
Yes, Italy has a substantial number of speed cameras, both fixed and mobile, including in Ravenna. They are used to enforce speed limits and ensure road safety.
6. What are some essential road safety rules in Ravenna?
It's a legal requirement that all car occupants wear seatbelts, and that children under 150cm in height use a suitable child restraint system. Headlights must be used outside built up areas during the day, and all the time in poor visibility.
7. Is parking readily available in Ravenna?
Ravenna has a mix of both free and paid parking spaces. Paid parking areas are generally marked by blue lines. In the central areas, it can sometimes be challenging to find a free spot.
8. What general traffic laws should I be aware of in Ravenna and the surrounding country?
Like any city, Ravenna has peak traffic hours, typically around the start and end of the work day, and it's illegal to use a mobile phone without a hands-free system while driving.
9. How is road signage in Ravenna?
Road signage in Ravenna, as in the rest of Italy, adheres to international standards. Signs are generally clear, but it might be useful to familiarise yourself with Italian road signs before your trip.
10. In case of an accident in Ravenna, what should I do?
In the event of an accident, you should call the European emergency number 112. If it's a minor accident with no serious injuries, it's customary in Italy to fill out a accident report form (Constatazione Amichevole).
11. Is it mandatory in Ravenna to carry specific safety equipment in the car?
In Italy, it is obliged to carry a warning triangle and a reflective vest in the car. The vest must be worn if you exit the car at the scene of an accident or breakdown on motorways or out-of-town roads.
12. How do I handle crosswalks in Ravenna?
Pedestrians crossing at designated crosswalks generally have right of way in Ravenna, but not all drivers observe this, so exercise caution.
13. Are there cycles lanes in Ravenna and the surrounding area?
Yes, Ravenna is reasonably bike-friendly and there are cycle lanes in many sections of the city. You must give right of way to cyclists when they are riding in these lanes.
14. Is it compulsory to have car insurance in Ravenna?
Yes, it's crucial to have at least third-party liability insurance when driving in Italy. You must be able to provide proof of this if stopped by the police.
15. What do the colors of the lines on the parking areas mean?
In Italy, white lines mean that parking is free, blue lines indicate a paid parking zone and yellow lines are reserved for special use, such as disabled parking, loading and unloading, etc.