Page 18 - (DK Eyewitness) Back Roads Travel Guide - France

16 BACK ROADS FRANCE

Driving in France

France has one of the densest road networks in Europe, with
modern motorways allowing quick and easy access to all parts
of the country. However, it is only by driving the back roads that
you will discover the real France. This will, of course, mean
tackling anything from roundabouts and road signs to herds of
sheep in your path. To get the most from your travels, and to do
so safely, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules and
requirements for driving in France before you set out. Above No entry road sign

Insurance and gendarmerie. A badge showing the traffic is normally very light. RNs
Breakdown Cover country of registration must be (routes nationales) are the main alter-
Car insurance is a legal requirement displayed near the rear number native, but can be busy with freight
in France. If your normal car insur- plate. The headlights of right-hand- traffic. D (départmentale) roads are
ance policy is fully comprehensive, drive cars must be adjusted for left- the small, quiet country roads on
most insurers automatically cover hand driving or be fitted with which you will usually be travelling.
you for up to 90 days’ driving in EU deflectors (available at most ports).
countries, so it is not necessary to You must carry a red warning Speed Limits and Fines
obtain a “Green Card and Bail Bond”, triangle, even if your car is fitted with Speed limits in France are strictly
although you may wish to have this hazard lights, and also a reflective enforced, with radar traps increas-
as well. Breakdown and accident yellow waist coat for any person ingly common. Fines are payable on
cover is also recommended, with an stepping out of the car at the scene the spot and drivers caught exceed-
English-speaking helpline that can of an accident (see pp18–19). Neither ing the limit by 25 km/h (15 mph)
liaise on your behalf with local break- a spare bulb kit nor a first-aid kit can have their licence confiscated on
down assistance (there is currently are compulsory but both are the spot. It is illegal to carry a radar
no nationwide service in France). recommended. In mountain areas in detector, even one that is not
winter, snow chains (chaînes) are switched on. If cars coming in the
What to Take often essential. opposite direction flash their head-
You should carry your vehicle lamps, slow down, as they are warn-
insurance policy with you, ideally Road Systems ing you of a trap ahead.
with a statement of cover in French Most motorways (marked A for Speed limits are as follows:
(usually provided by the insurer). It is autoroute) in France have a toll • On autoroutes: 130 km/h (80 mph);
also compulsory to take the original (péage) system. Usually, upon joining 110 km/h (68 mph) in wet weather.
registration document for the car, as the system, you collect a ticket • On dual carriageways: 110 km/h
well as a valid driving licence. If you showing your point of entry. You do (68 mph); 90–100 km/h (55–62 mph)
are not the registered owner of the not pay until you reach an exit toll, in wet weather.
vehicle, carry a letter from the owner where you are charged by distance • On other roads: 90 km/h (55 mph);
giving you permission to drive it. travelled and type of vehicle used. 80 km/h (50 mph) in wet weather.
You must also have your passport or Sections in or around major towns • In towns: 50 km/h (30 mph). This
national ID card. Any of these are usually free. Tolls can be paid with applies anywhere in a village, hamlet
documents should be produced cash or credit cards. Motorways are or city, unless marked otherwise. In
upon demand by the police or usually in excellent condition and some places it may be lower.