Useful Tips For Driving in Quebec

By Adriana Noton

Every year, many drivers take advantage of driving in Quebec. Quebec has a wide variety of roads and highways allowing drivers to access all areas of the province. When driving Quebec's roads, one should be aware of the general and specific rules and guidelines that should be followed. Below are a number of tips for driving in Quebec.

Driver's License and assurance auto Montreal : If you are traveling to Quebec from another country, most foreign driver's licenses are valid for stays under 6 months. After 6 months, one is required to have an international driving permit. When you drive on Quebec roads, you must hold a liability insurance policy of at least $50,000. If a vehicle is involved in an accident and the vehicle is not registered in Quebec, the amount of damages awarded will be based on the non-resident's degree of responsibility. Proof of insurance must be kept in the car when driving a vehicle. As well, non Quebec residents may be covered for compensation under the province's no-fault insurance.

Driving Age: The minimum age for driving a car in Quebec is 16. However, there are a few car rental companies that mandate a driver be at least 25. As well, for those rental companies that permit drivers under 25 to rent a car, they may charge higher insurance rates. It is also important to be aware that wearing seatbelts when driving is the law in Quebec.

Turning Right on a Red Light: Since 2003, it has been legal to turn right on a red light. The law mandates that drivers come to a complete stop before turning and that they yield to other traffic and pedestrians. If a driver fails to do so, one could receive a fine and demerit points applied to their license.

Alcohol and Driving: It is illegal to consume alcohol and drive a vehicle. A driver suspected of driving under the influence will be required to perform a breathalyzer test. If the test results reveal an alcohol concentration of 80 or more milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood, (maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio for driving in Quebec is 0.08%), their driver's license will be suspended for a 30-day period. There are often police road checks for intoxicated drivers.

Traveling Quebec's Roads: All traffic in Quebec travels on the right. Road signs are international, but generally in French. Maximum speed limits are 50km/h (31mph) in urban areas, 80km/h (50mph) on rural highways, and 100km/h (62mph) on regular highways. Radar detection devices are strictly banned and are prohibited from being carried in vehicles. In the winter, snow tires are mandatory. Information on road conditions is available from the Ministere des Transports. For a wide range of helpful information about driving in Quebec, you can visit the CAA Quebec website.

Quebec is a beautiful province that one will enjoy by car. Before you begin driving in Quebec, it is important that you are well informed about the laws regarding driving so that you can avoid any issues such as getting a speeding ticket or getting a fine for not driving safely. - 29952

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here