ROAD safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging UK drivers heading overseas this summer to plan carefully, manage fatigue and understand local road rules to ensure a safe and stress-free journey.

Research shows driver tiredness contributes to up to 20 per cent of collisions on major roads, with long, monotonous journeys posing particular risks.

That's why it's so important to take breaks at least every two hours, stay well hydrated, and avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day where possible. Sharing the driving can also reduce fatigue and improve concentration, says GEM.

Budgeting a road trip abroad is another key consideration, according to GEM. It's easy to underestimate the cost of toll roads across Europe; a return motorway journey from the UK to the south of France, for example, can easily exceed £200 in toll charges alone, depending on the route and vehicle type.

Planning routes in advance and understanding payment methods - such as cash, card or electronic toll tags - can prevent unnecessary stress and drastically reduce time spent queuing to pay at the toll plaza.

It makes sense to familiarise yourself with local driving laws before you set off. Differences in speed limits, priority rules, low emission zones and mandatory equipment - such as reflective jackets or warning triangles - can lead to fines if ignored.

James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, said: "Driving abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it brings additional risks that shouldn't be underestimated. Fatigue, unfamiliar road systems and unexpected costs can quickly turn a holiday journey into something stressful and potentially risky.

"The key is preparation - plan your route, understand the rules of the road in each country, and make regular stops to stay alert. A well-prepared driver is a safer driver."

in most European countries you will be driving on the right-hand side of the road, so take extra care at junctions, roundabouts and when joining or leaving motorways.

don't drive tired, build in time for proper breaks and share the driving on long journeys if you can.

GEM continues to advise that if you're driving you should not drink any alcohol, and bear in mind that the vast majority of European countries have lower legal blood alcohol limits than the UK. Some even operate zeroâtolerance rules for certain driver groups.

speed limits differ by country and road type, so make sure you understand the limits and how they are signed, especially in rural areas and around schools.

check on the equipment required in each country you're visiting. Reflective jackets, warning triangles, spare bulbs , certain documents and first aid kits are compulsory in many countries, so check the rules in advance and ensure everything is with you.

be aware of low-emission zones, city access charges, priority rules at junctions and requirements for dayâtime running lights. These vary from country to country and may result in onâtheâspot fines if ignored.