French driving laws you should know for your summer road trip
Get to know French driving laws to avoid fines if you drive across the Channel this summer
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Driving in a foreign country often brings a set of unfamiliar rules and regulations. France, a popular destination for British tourists, is no exception.
With more than half a million Brits expected to travel to France for a summer of sport, it’s more important than ever to get to grips with French driving laws to avoid unwanted fines.
There’s no need to spoil your Parisian adventures and jaunts through the picturesque French countryside.
Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, has got your back with some unusual driving laws to look out for if you’re driving to France anytime soon.
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Priority to the right (priorité à droite)
One of the most perplexing aspects of driving in France is the 'priority to the right' rule. Unlike the UK, where the right of way is typically clear, French roads often operate on the principle of ‘priorité à droite’.
Essentially, you need to give way to vehicles coming from the right at junctions and crossroads, unless you see a road sign with a yellow diamond inside a white diamond. This means that you have priority at an upcoming junction, whereas the same sign with a black stripe diagonally through it signals the end of the priority road.
Sam recommends being prepared for 'priorité à droite, especially in cities with heavy traffic from all angles: “This rule can be pretty confusing in urban areas where minor roads intersect all the time. Look out for cars suddenly appearing from tiny side streets. Don’t give priority to the right, and you could face a fine upwards of 135€.”
Speed camera detectors
In the UK, many drivers use GPS systems with built-in speed camera detectors to avoid fines. However, in France, it’s illegal to use any device that can detect speed cameras, including certain GPS systems and mobile apps.
France is so serious about this that you could be hit with a 1,500€ fine if you’re caught with one.
Your device could also be confiscated if you’re caught, so definitely make sure your sat-nav or maps app complies with French laws.
Parking regulations and restrictions
Parking in France comes with its own set of peculiar rules. For instance, parking on the pavement is strictly forbidden.
Also, parking is often restricted on one side of the street for the first half of the month, and on the opposite side for the second half. This is usually shown with small signs that can be easy to miss.
These signs show a red circle with a blue centre and a red diagonal line going through the middle. You might see dates inside this circle, with a date only on the top-right side showing the dates you can’t park there.
Dates in the top right and bottom left of the circle show when parking swaps sides depending on the half of the month you’re in.
The same sign but greyed out signals the end of this restrictive zone, and you’re free to park.
Ignoring these parking laws can lead to your car being towed or a substantial fine.
Using the horn
In France, using your car horn is regulated much more strictly than in the UK. The horn should only be used to warn of immediate danger.
Excessive or unnecessary use of the horn, such as expressing frustration at other drivers, can result in a fine of upwards of 150€.
During nighttime, in built-up areas, the horn should be replaced by flashing your headlights to alert others.
This is one law that Sam notes as a standout: “Horns and lights in the UK do also have regulations around them, but they’re often either ignored or simply unknown. While you can get away with not knowing them here, you might not be so lucky overseas.”
Running out of fuel on motorways
Running out of fuel on a motorway in France is considered an avoidable hazard and can lead to a fine.
It’s important to plan your journey carefully and ensure you have enough fuel to get where you’re going, or at least to the next service station.
French motorways often have long stretches without service areas, so it’s wise to refuel whenever you have the opportunity.
Depending on where your vehicle comes to a halt, you could also face a heftier fine. If it’s deemed a more dangerous place, you risk a 75€ fine, jumping to 135€.
Disabled parking badge usage
While the UK’s Blue Badge scheme is recognised in France, the rules for using disabled parking spaces differ slightly.
In France, disabled parking spaces are marked with a wheelchair symbol, but not all spaces marked with a blue square are designated for disabled parking.
Sam explains: “In some regions, the use of these spaces is restricted to local permit holders. It’s wise to check the specific rules in the area you’re visiting beforehand to avoid any potential fines.”
Stricter rules for cyclists
Cyclists in France must adhere to a specific set of regulations. For example, it is mandatory for cyclists under 12 years old to wear a helmet, both as a rider and a passenger.
Additionally, cycling two or more side-by-side is only allowed outside built-up areas and only if it doesn’t impede traffic.
Cyclists need to ride single file in towns or when traffic conditions require it. Failing to do so could land you with a fine as high as 135€.
French road trips
Driving in France in your used BMW can be a delightful experience – exploring the country’s beautiful landscapes and charming villages at your own pace.
Avoid these common driving faux pas to make sure you’re not hit with any unexpected fines and ensure a trouble-free journey.
Besides, it’s always best practice to double-check if there are any driving laws you don’t know about before driving in a new country.