Coimbra

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Road Safety

Sections

Road Safety in Coimbra, Portugal

1. Traffic Laws

  • Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h
    • Motorways: 120 km/h
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
  • Alcohol Limit: 0.5 g/l for general drivers; 0.2 g/l for novice drivers and professional drivers.
  • Mobile Phones: Use of handheld devices while driving is prohibited.

2. Pedestrian Safety

  • Crosswalks: Always use designated crosswalks. Vehicles are required to yield to pedestrians.
  • Sidewalks: Pedestrians should use sidewalks; if unavailable, walk facing oncoming traffic.
  • Traffic Lights: Obey pedestrian signals; do not cross on red.

3. Public Transportation Safety

  • Buses and Trains: Generally safe; however, keep personal belongings secure.
  • Night Travel: Use well-lit bus stops and avoid isolated areas.
  • Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers (e.g., 112 for emergencies).

4. Common Road Hazards

  • Narrow Streets: Coimbra has many narrow, winding streets; drive cautiously.
  • Bicycles and Motorcycles: Watch for cyclists and motorcyclists, especially in urban areas.
  • Weather Conditions: Rain can make roads slippery; reduce speed during wet conditions.

5. Cultural Considerations

  • Driving Etiquette: Portuguese drivers may be assertive; maintain awareness and patience.
  • Roundabouts: Yield to traffic already in the roundabout.
  • Local Events: Be cautious during local festivals or events, as traffic patterns may change.

6. Costs

  • Fines for Violations:
    • Speeding: €60 - €600 depending on severity.
    • Not wearing a seatbelt: €120 - €600.
    • Using a mobile phone: €120 - €600.
  • Parking Fees:
    • Street parking: €0.50 - €1.00 per hour.
    • Public parking garages: €1.00 - €2.00 per hour.
  • Parking Violations: Fines range from €30 to €150.

7. Procedures

  • Reporting Accidents:
    • Call 112 for emergencies.
    • Exchange information with involved parties.
    • File a report with the local police if necessary.
  • Obtaining a Local Driving License:
    • EU citizens can use their home country license.
    • Non-EU citizens may need to apply for a Portuguese license after 185 days of residency.

8. Local Site Considerations

  • Historic Areas: Be cautious in the old town (Almedina) where streets are narrow and often cobbled.
  • University Traffic: Expect increased pedestrian traffic around the University of Coimbra, especially during class hours.
  • Parking Restrictions: Pay attention to signs indicating restricted parking zones, especially in tourist areas.

Conclusion

Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, remain vigilant about pedestrian safety, and be aware of common road hazards. Understanding the costs associated with driving and parking, as well as the procedures for reporting incidents, will enhance your experience in Coimbra.