A guest blog from Natali Farrell of Just Motor Law.
On-the-spot fines for women drivers travelling in France without compulsory breathalyser kits have been postponed from 1 November 2012 until next year.
This is an unexpected amnesty by the French government allowing UK drivers and motor fleet managers more time to brush up on a wide range of complex French driving laws to ensure compliance.
Since July this year it has been unlawful to drive any motor vehicle in France without two do-it-yourself breathalyser kits, which cost around £1 each. Fines of EU11 (around £9) to enforce the law were due to be introduced this autumn.
Supply difficulties with single-use kits bearing the official NF or Norme Francaise mark, mean fines will now begin next spring, announced French government minister Manual Valls, even though motorists currently travelling without the kits are technically breaking the law.
Random checks will be carried out by French police as vehicles arrive from UK ferries or via the Channel tunnel. Motorists should be prepared for a robust approach from the French authorities after such an extended amnesty.
Having said that, the fines are relatively small but the inconvenience and hassle can be great – especially as, in theory, a motorist could be stopped and fined several times during a single journey until they purchase the kits.
Motorists may also come under scrutiny for other aspects of French motor law such as carrying a warning triangle, a fluorescent safety vest, first aid kit, fire extinguisher and spare bulbs for car lamps, lenses and reflectors.
Surveys revealed that awareness of the new breathalyser law is very low with typical awareness levels similar to the Institute of Advanced Motorists claim that some 50% of UK motorists are unaware of the change.
The French drink-drive limit is 50mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood compared to 80mg in the UK. France is by far the most popular overseas destination for UK motorists, accounting for 4 million trips every year – ten times more than Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands or Spain.
Motorists and fleet managers can brush up on their knowledge of French and other overseas driving laws by consulting the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at www.fco.gov.uk.
About Just Motor Law
Just Motor Law is an expert in the field of road traffic defence and can defend any motoring offence.
Natali Farrell is a dedicated Road Traffic Lawyer specialising in all areas of motoring offences including speeding. Natali will tell you all there is to know about speeding offences and if any speeding offence can be challenged.
To contact Natali either call 0845 688 0045 or email her via nfarrell@justmotorlaw.co.uk