Driving in Bulgaria
If you are planning to visit and hire a car in Bulgaria, prepare
yourself. Anyone who has ever driven there will agree that the
Bulgarian road system is still very underdeveloped. Due to a
combination of poor driving habits, old cars and badly damaged
roads, driving can be extremely dangerous.
Drivers tend to be aggressive and there has been a recent
increase in "road rage" led accidents. Such drivers in outdated,
unsafe cars contribute to the country's high fatality rates on
the road. Further caution should be exercised at night as
drivers often drive with missing headlights.
You really should know where you are going as many roads lack
markings, lights and road signs. Similarly, you should be aware
of the other type of aggressive drivers in flashier modern BMW's
and Mercs who can be equally as dangerous.
The use of seat belts is compulsory in Bulgaria for all
passengers, except pregnant women. Children less than 12 years
of age may ride in the front seat but only if seated in a child
car seat. However, if you look into the cars of fellow drivers
it can be seen that these laws are often broken.
Speed limits are 50 km/h in the cities/towns, 90 km/h in the
countryside, and 130 km/h on the motorways. Motorcyclists must
wear helmets and have lights on at all times. For motorcycles,
speed limits are 50 km/h in the cities/towns, 80 km/h out of
town, and 100 km/h on the Motorways. It is advisable that
drivers do not drink any alcohol at all as the blood alcohol
limit is 0mg.
Police have the power to collect fines on the spot and they
should issue a receipt.
Fuel stations are located in large towns and every 35 km or so
along main roads. Most stations operate from 6am to 9.30pm, but
some are open around the clock. Fuel in blue pumps is of much
better quality. Unleaded petrol is known as bes olovo bleifrei.
Some stations accept credit cards but you should carry cash just
in case.
In case of emergency, drivers should contact the police at
telephone number 166 and/or the Roadside Assistance at telephone
number 146. For an ambulance, call 150. The fire department can
be reached at 160.