Local Driving Guide -
Driving in France is very similar to being in the UK, except, of course, that you will be driving on the right side of the road (serrez droite means keep to the right). France has over 8,000 kilometres of motorways, mostly toll roads which are privately financed, so prices do vary. The speed limit on these roads is 130km/h, while it is up to 110km/h out of town and 50km/h in built-up areas. Seat-belts must be worn by all occupants, and under-10s are not permitted in the front unless palced in a specially approved seat facing backwards. It is illegal to drive with faulty lights, so it is recommended that you carry a spare bulb kit. Headlamps need to be adjusted for continental travel. A warning triangle must be carried. Remember that stop signs mean what they say. Do not try to creep over the line ready for a fast getaway. You must stop completely. If you have to stop on an open road, make sure the car is driven off the road. Overtaking where there is a solid centre line is heavily penalised. Broken centre lines indicate where passing is allowed. When there are three or five lanes, please note that the middle lane is to be used by traffic going in both directions. When encountering a tram, make sure you do not pass it while passengers are loading or disembarking. The poplar trees that line many of the roads were planted by order of Napoleon to offer shade for his marching troops. Do NOT drink and drive. |
