Drivers must now carry a reflective jacket in the vehicle when travelling in France. The new law came into force 01 July 2008 as part of a move to improve driving safety.
Failure to comply with the new law carries the risk of a 135-euro fine.
This fine will be reduced to 90 euros if paid early. Fines will be levied from 01 October 2008.
In an emergency, the reflective jacket must be accessible by the driver and worn before leaving the car. The reflective jacket must be worn whether it’s day or night and regardless of visibility.
The director of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, Neil Greg, said: “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 three times more likely to be involved in an accident when abroad. Being fully prepared will really take some of the stress out of a bad situation.”
To help drivers get prepared for travelling abroad, whether for business or on holiday, National has set up Drive Safe – an online resource with useful tips, legal information and local knowledge about driving in 48 different countries spread across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and North America.
Further information
- To use National’s Drive Safe, click www.nationaldrivesafe.co.uk
New safety regulation carries 135-euro fine
