New French Trafic law

The law and you

IAM WARNS MOTORISTS OF NEW FRENCH TRAFFIC LAW

4 July 2008
With an expected nine million passengers to cross the channel by car this year, the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) is warning motorists of a new piece of French legislation. From 1 July 2008, it is compulsory to have a reflective jacket on board a vehicle with four wheels or more.

Neil Greig, Director of the IAM Motoring Trust said: “This new legislation means any person planning to drive in France must carry a reflective jacket. It’s worth investing in one, before you leave, to ensure you don’t end up with a nasty fine when you’re on holiday. It would be a shame to get your collar felt for the lack of a legal jacket.”

In an emergency, the jacket must be easily accessible by the driver and must be put on before leaving the car, day or night, regardless of visibility. As of 1 October 2008, any person found not complying will face a 135 euro fine (90 euro if paid early).

Mr Greig added: “People tend to go into ‘holiday mode’ when away and don’t expect to break down or be involved in an accident. But, research shows you’re actually three times more likely to be involved in an accident when abroad. Being fully prepared will really help take some of the stress out of a bad situation.” This week the IAM has prepared some simple tips to help you understand what it is a motorist need to know whilst driving abroad, for more information visit www.iam.org.uk.

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