Driving laws in Latvia can be very strict, yet the country has one of the highest rates of automobile accidents and fatalities in Europe. This is partly attributed to acute variations in road surfaces and conditions from main roads to more rural areas changing quite dramatically in a very short distance. Latvia is particularly strict on drink driving and this offence carries heavy penalties. Local authorities use roadblocks and breathalyzer tests to enforce the law.

City Driving

• There are no motorways apart from a brief stretch linking Riga and Jurmala

• Roads linking major towns are usually in a reasonable state. Most towns are well provided with petrol stations

County Driving

• Road conditions can vary dramatically outside of the main towns with conditions deteriorating rapidly