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Motorist in Kent are being warned to watch out when driving with a sat nav abroad

While the technology is common place in most British cars, 13 countries in Europe do not allow any in-car-systems that alerts the driver to speed cameras – and those caught using it could face serious penalties.

Sat nav systems that detect the radar or laser system from a safety camera or speed gun and alert the driver to their presence are banned in Italy, Austria, Germany, the Republic of Ireland and France among other countries.

Point of interest systems, which point out popular tourist destinations as well as garages, car parks and shop, are also prohibited in seven European countries, as they also indicate the location of fixed safety cameras.

~ Video: Kent Online hit the streets to ask people what goes in their car when driving abroad. Click the link on the right.

The punishment for using the banned equipment varies from country to country – in Germany you can face a 75euro fine, while the Swiss and Irish police can confiscate the technology completely.

Neil Greig of IAM Motoring Trust said: “There are cases where camera detectors have been literally ripped out by local police.

“The best thing to do is check if detectors are permitted in the country you plan to visit or simply don’t take one with you.”

~ Listen: Brian McDowel, from Kent's Association of British Drivers, says the laws are unfair on British holidaymakers making their way around foreign countries >>>

The warning comes shortly after Kent police reminded holidaymakers driving to the continent this summer to ensure they had both a hi-vis vest and warning triangle in their vehicle, as it is law to carry them in France.