Alvor Warnings Or Dangers

Portugal has the highest accident rate in Europe, so, be careful in traffic.
They hardly keep the speed limits and they overtake at the most impossible places. Please remember that just because the Locals get away with it, it doesn't mean you will. Fines for traffic offences are substantial in Portugal. Such infringements as speeding, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, the use of mobile phones whilst driving and illegal parking are heavily penalised. Special emphasis is also placed on the use of child safety seats and seat belts in the rear of the vehicle. The police have the authority to fine on-the-spot and most of their vehicles are equipped with portable ATM machines to facilitate immediate payment. The Portuguese Highway Code can be found (in Portuguese) at: http://www.dgv.pt

You must keep your passport, Driving License and car hire/Insurance agreement with you in case you are stopped by the police. You will have problems if you have not got them.

Don't drink and drive , the Alcohol limit is only 50mg per 100ml but the police operate a no tolerance policy and you could well end up in Jail for having a couple of glasses of wine with your meal or for having a few to many the night before.

Some other limits

Within the built-up area: 60km
Outside the built-up area: 90km
Main roads: 100km
Motorways: 120km
The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory.
Insurance and a valid British drivers license is compulsory.

Although the Motorway in the Algarve which goes from The boarder of Spain to Lagos is Toll free, if you want to explore the country up to and around Lisbon there is a toll system in operation on the motorways. Heavy fines are imposed on those who do not or cannot pay toll fees. You should take care not to use the green lanes reserved for motorists who subscribe to the automatic pay system.