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Changes to Road Safety Across France From 1st July 2015

No headphones, no eating, no smoking with children on board & increased fines

featured in News & reviews Author Ellie Mahoney, Alpe d'Huez Editor Updated

In a move to cut down the number of accidents and deaths on the roads in France, the government have released a new set of road safety measures, which took effect yesterday 1st July. 

No eating, applying makeup or listening to loud music

Eating a sandwich behind the wheel has become prohibited as it is deemed to prevent proper concentration by the motorist on the road. Other entertainment will also be outlawed. Putting on makeup whilst driving is also banned, as is playing your music too loud. These offences are punishable by a fine of € 75.

Headphones banned

It is now illegal to drive with any form of headsets (earphones or headphones) in a car or on a motorbike. The only form of communication allowed is through loudspeakers for cars or via specially equipped helmets for motorbikers. Fines imposed for breaking these laws will be 135 euros and 3 points taken from your license. Alternative suggestions include a handsfree speaker, handsfree radio transmitter, GPS systems & integrated phone systems already built into some cars.

No Smoking with children on board

Zero cigarettes with children on board - It is now forbidden to smoke with children in your car. Children under 12 must be protected from cigarettes according to the French health minister. This measure is implemented in order to reduce exposure to passive smoking. The fine will be 68 euros.

Fines for illegally parked cars will increase

Parking on a crossing, pavement or bike path will result in a fine of 135 euros. The previous fine only amounted to 35 euros.

Lower speed limits

On certain roads deemed to be accident prone, the speed limit will be decreased from  90 kmh to 80 kmh. The N7 in the Drôme (18km between Valencia and Crozes-Hermitage), the RN57 in Haute-Saône (14 km in Vesoul Rioz) and the RN151 in the Yonne and Nièvre (32 km and 17 km between Auxerre and Varzy).

Zero alcohol for young drivers

Drivers with a probationary license are not allowed to drink and drive. The blood alcohol limit is being reduced from 0.5 g/l to 0.2 g/l. Young drivers with less than three years' experience risk having their license revoked and having to resit their driving test. This offense is punishable by a fine of 135 euros and 6 points taken off your license.

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