Driving in France can be a daunting prospect for many motorists new to driving in France. Obviously you will be driving on the 'wrong side of the road' which poses it's own challenges. Here are a couple of tips:
- 1. When driving in France on single carriageway roads in try to only stop at petrol stations on the right hand side of the road. It's much more natural then to continue driving on the right hand side of the road.
- 2. Take your time! Don't rush! If you rush your instinct may take over and you're instinct is geared to driving on the left!
- 3. Pay particular care on roundabouts! A lot of French don't!!! Navigators remember to look at the signs ANTI-CLOCKWISE! Drivers remember Danger is coming from the LEFT!
When planning your driving routes through France, you can try www.viamichelin.com which provides maps, directions and even places to stay en-route! For up to the minute driving information on traffic conditions on the major routes throughout France try France2 traffic conditions this is a service provided by one of the major television stations in France.
Some items you should also be carrying with you are:
UK Driving License - Compulsory to carry this when driving in France - failure = on the spot fines!
Car registration documents - log book must be carried with you at all times. This can also incur an on the spot fine!
Headlamp Adaptors - UK vehicles are designed for driving on the left hand side of the road this will mean that when driving in France you will dazzle oncoming drivers. Failure to adapt your headlamps will render the vehicle UNFIT for the road. invalidating your motor insurance and could result in a spot fine
GB Stickers - these are required by International Law to indicate Country of Registration
Warning Triangles - In France warning triangle must be placed 50 - 150 metres behind your vehicle to warn approaching traffic if your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident. Hazard warning lights alone are not sufficient
Spare Bulbs - All car lamps, lenses and reflectors must be in working order at all times - failure to replace a broken bulb could result in a spot fine so always carry spares for all your car lights
First Aid Kit - A First Aid kit must be carried in your vehicle at all times when driving in France.
Fire Extinguisher - If you fail to render assistance in the event of a fire or take necessary precautions to prevent a fire from escalating is an offence
Insurance Policies - If the driver/owner of a vehicle fails to comply with the law and fails to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy for the country he intends to visit could result in the insurance company repudiating liability under the Policy.
Failure to Comply - On the spot fines can be imposed In the event of prosecution and conviction for failure to comply with the legal requirements of EU countries.
On the Spot Fines - Fines have to be paid on the spot in the local currency with travellers cheques and credit cards not being acceptable. Inability to pay may in some countries result in the vehicle being impounded until fine has been paid. Wilst a visitor driving in France will probably have to pay on the spot fines, residants often are given 45 days to pay. Residants can pay radar camera fines online here: www.amendes.gouv.fr.
Car Insurance - Green Card - The majority of all car insurance policies provide a minimum level of cover required to drive a car on mainland Europe. It is always worth checking with your insurance company prior to driving in France.
It is also very important that you collect a 'green card' from your car insurance provider prior to leaving the country. A 'green card' is an internationally recognised document to prove that your vehicle meets the minimum car insurance requirement for driving in France. Some insurance companies do charge for a green card so please check.
Remember to take your time driving in France. It is a little different and therefore can be more dangerous for those of us attuned to driving on the left! If you take your time, you will be less stressed and will be able to enjoy the French scenery more. Bon Voyage!