Heavy traffic on the A28 autoroute
The French Interior Ministry has recently decided to re-introduce the roadside panels warning motorists of fixed speed radar cameras. The Ministry has also delayed implementing fines (11€) for motorists who are not carrying the obligatory alcohol test kits. Under French law carrying at least two kits or an approved testing machine became obligatory from the beginning of July 2012 with fines to be imposed from the 1st November 2012. Fines were then pushed back to 1st March 2013 but have now be delayed with no starting date announced.
• de rétablir les panneaux signalant les
radars fixes,
• de ne pas imposer la possession obligoire
d’éthylotest dans les véhicules.
Le rétablissement des panneaux signalant
les radars fixes doit se mettre en place progressivement sur 2 ou
3 ans. Conformément à la décision du Comité interministériel de la
sécurité routière (CISR) du 11 mai 2011, les panneaux indiquant la présence de
radars fixes avaient en effet été retirés (décret publié au Journal officiel du
19 mai 2011).
Despite the non-imposition of fines, drivers should still carry the required alcohol test kits. Drink driving laws (0.05% max – 50mg of alcohol per 100mls of blood) are strictly enforced as are those on excess speeding. Drivers, who are considerably over drink or speeding limits, risk having their licences taken away on the spot.
Although the legal limit in the UK is 0.08%, this level and above is viewed in France as an aggravated offence and can attract a license suspension for three years, 4500€ fine and up to two years in prison.
Although the legal limit in the UK is 0.08%, this level and above is viewed in France as an aggravated offence and can attract a license suspension for three years, 4500€ fine and up to two years in prison.
