Israel is a country known for its rich history, culture, and religious significance. It is also a popular destination for tourists who wish to explore its beautiful landscapes and cities. However, driving in Israel can be challenging for visitors who are not familiar with the local rules and regulations. This article provides information on road safety, driving standards, equipment requirements, parking rules, and other important driving rules in Israel.
Road Safety in Israel
Road safety is a top priority in Israel, and the government has taken several measures to reduce accidents and promote safe driving. However, accidents still occur, and visitors should be aware of the risks and take precautions to ensure their safety.
The quality of roads in Israel varies, with major highways and roads in urban areas being generally well-maintained. However, rural roads and those in more remote areas may be narrower and less well-maintained, making them more challenging to navigate. Drivers should exercise caution when driving on these roads, especially at night.
Local driving standards in Israel can also be different from those in other countries. Drivers in Israel are known to be aggressive, and it is not uncommon for drivers to honk their horns or tailgate other vehicles. Visitors should be aware of this and drive defensively to avoid accidents.
Equipment Requirements in Israel
Drivers in Israel are required to carry certain equipment in their vehicles at all times. This includes:
- A reflective vest
- A warning triangle
- A first-aid kit
Drivers who fail to carry these items can be fined by the police.
What to Do in the Event of a Road Accident in Israel
If you are involved in a road accident in Israel, it is essential to follow the correct procedures to ensure your safety and that of other road users. Here are the steps to follow:
- Call the police and an ambulance if anyone is injured.
- Turn on your hazard lights and use a warning triangle to warn other drivers.
- Do not move the vehicles involved in the accident until the police arrive.
- Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident, including names, addresses, and insurance details.
- Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any injuries sustained.
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
Main Driving Rules in Israel
Driving Side
In Israel, drivers drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Right of Way
Drivers in Israel are required to give way to pedestrians at all times. This includes stopping at zebra crossings and giving way to pedestrians who are crossing the road. Failure to give way to pedestrians can result in a fine.
Speed Limits
The speed limit in urban areas is generally 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour), although this can vary depending on the road and location. On highways, the speed limit is 90 kilometers per hour (56 miles per hour), and on rural roads, it is generally 80 kilometers per hour (50 miles per hour). It is important to adhere to speed limits to ensure road safety and avoid fines.
Other Driving Rules
Other driving rules in Israel include:
- It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless you have a hands-free device.
- It is compulsory to wear a seatbelt in both the front and back seats of a vehicle.
- Children under the age of 12 must be seated in the back of the vehicle and use appropriate child restraints.
Road Signs and Traffic Lights in Israel
Road signs in Israel are similar to those in other countries, with the main difference being that they are in Hebrew and Arabic. Most road signs are easy to understand, but visitors should familiarize themselves with the most common signs to avoid confusion.
Traffic lights in Israel are similar to those in other countries, with red, yellow, and green lights indicating when to stop, prepare to stop, and go, respectively. However, visitors should be aware that some traffic lights in Israel have a flashing green light, which means that drivers can proceed with caution if the road is clear.
Where to Get Up-to-Date Road Traffic Info in Israel
Visitors can get up-to-date road traffic information in Israel from several sources, including:
- The Israeli Police website (https://www.police.gov.il/en/Pages/HomePage.aspx)
- The Ministry of Transport website (https://www.transportation.gov.il/en/)
- Waze, a popular navigation app that provides real-time traffic updates.
Parking Rules in Israel
Parking in Israel can be challenging, especially in urban areas where space is limited. Visitors should familiarize themselves with the parking rules to avoid fines and penalties.
Parking Permits
In some areas, visitors may need a parking permit to park their vehicle. These permits can be obtained from local municipalities or parking authorities. It is important to check the parking regulations in each area to ensure compliance.
Disabled Parking
Disabled parking spaces are available in Israel, and drivers with disabilities can park in designated spaces with a valid disabled parking permit. Visitors should ensure that they have the appropriate permit before parking in a disabled space.
Driving in Israel can be challenging for visitors who are not familiar with the local rules and regulations. However, by following the rules of the road, carrying the required equipment, and driving defensively, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Israel. It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest road traffic information and parking regulations to avoid fines and penalties.