Discover The Czech Republic

The D1

Just recently I have been commuting regularly between Brno and Prague along the infamous D1. The D1 is the main highway in the Czech Republic and it is one of the most dangerous roads in Europe. It has only two lanes on each side for most of the way, is in terrible condition (literally hold on to your teeth when driving along this road – particularly at the Brno end) and there hasn’t been a single occasion that I haven’t seen at least one overturned vehicle when driving it. Czech drivers are often quite poor too and will drive at excessive speeds under all conditions literally pushing you out of the way with their headlights flashing.

The legal driving age in the Czech Republic is 18. You are required to have a zero blood alcohol level when driving and police often conduct breath tests. You must have fastened seat belt and children up to twelve years of age may not travel in the front seat of vehicle. The speed limit is 50 km/h (30 mph) in built-up areas, 90 km/h (60 mph) out of built-up areas and 130 km/h (80 mph) on highways.

If you use any multilane divided highway you have to buy the Highway Sticker for 1200 Kc ($66) and place it on the windshield. The sticker may be purchased at all border crossings, post offices and some gas stations. The fine for driving without the sticker is 20.000 Kc ($1111).

For car emergency service call the automobile and motorcycle club 24 hours a day on the number 1230. In case of an accident the police should be contacted immediately if damage exceeds 100.000 Kc.