The French Minister of Interior has announced an indefinite delay on the fines for motorists, including motorcyclists, who do not carry a breathalyser kit with them in their vehicle.
Previously, it was decided that fines would be issued from March 1, 2013.
Currently, all drivers in France, including motorcyclists, are required to carry a breathalyser kit and the €11 fine for not carrying a breathalyser would have been applicable to all road users, except for those on mopeds.
Anyone driving in France is already required to carry a warning triangle and a fluorescent safety vest to use in an emergency. Additionally UK motorists and motorcyclists must display a GB plate.
IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: “The law for carrying breathalysers will no longer be enforced through fines, but in order to comply with the law we still recommend that you keep a breathalyser kit in the car whenever you’re travelling to or through France.”
Graham Ellis - 19/02/2013 11:47
This scheme had proved unworkable in practice and it is rumored that the requirement will be dropped sometime in the autumn.The biggest problem is that the one and only manufacturer authorised to produce the kits is unable to supply sufficient quantities and the legality of using only one supplier under EU rules has been questioned.