Following last week’s chaotic story about Florida requiring UK drivers to hold an International Driving Permit, there’s more confusion for British drivers abroad.
France’s Minister of Interior has announced that the €11 fine for motorists who do not carry a breathalyser kit in their vehicle – previously due to come into force tomorrow – have been shelved. But some holiday companies are warning British drivers to still carry the kits that can be picked up on most cross-channel ferries.
“Even though traffic police won’t have the power to issue fines, you should still carry one of the readily-available disposable kits with you as part of your in-car safety equipment,” says Duncan Pollard of UK-based French holiday cottage specialists gites.co.uk,
“Many people don’t realise that the drink-drive limit in France is around half that of the UK, and the kit should serve as a reminder of the tougher laws on the continent.”
A typical penalty for drink-driving in France is a €135 (£116) fine plus penalty points. Those guilty of an “aggravated” offence – and that’s with blood/alcohol levels above the current UK limit – can face up to €4,500 (£3,900) in fines and two years imprisonment.
