Motorists planning a trip overseas in the months ahead should remember that driving in Europe can be very different from back home, with a range of additional laws and regulations they must adhere to.

As a result, motoring organisation the AA has published a helpful breakdown of some of the more obscure European driving laws that individuals might not be aware of.

For example, the AA highlights the Belgian law that any stationary vehicle must have its engine switched off, while in Belarus it is deemed to be an offence for motorists to drive with a dirty car.

Elsewhere, drivers in Estonia are prohibited from overtaking trams that have stopped to allow passengers to get on or off, while in Iceland, drivers must not drive outside of marked carriageways and tracks, as doing so presents a risk of damage to local flora and fauna and it is therefore a prosecutable offence.

In Portugal, drivers need to be aware that it is illegal to carry a bicycle on the back of their car, while in Slovenia it is against the law for drivers to indicate when entering a roundabout – they must only do so when they are preparing to leave.

All of these differences may seem trivial to many people, but failing to take into account the laws of the land can ultimately see motorists in considerable amounts of hot water if they are not careful.

Rosie Sanderson, head of AA International Motoring Services, commented: "Motoring penalties in Europe can be severe with large on-the-spot fines, the risk of having your car impounded or worse.

"Traffic police on the continent aren't known for their leniency, so even minor breaches can be punished, but it helps adopting a courteous and conciliatory approach. Don't give them the opportunity, though, so brush up on the rules and equipment, watch your speed and don't drink and drive."