French motorists must be extra vigilant regarding their mandatory safety equipment. Two accessories in particular are in the sights of law enforcement: the fluorescent vest and the warning triangle. Their absence can be very expensive, with fines of up to 750 euros.
The fluorescent vest must be worn when stopping on the road, while the warning triangle must be placed at least 30 meters from the vehicle to signal imminent danger. A simple road check without this equipment can already result in a fine of 38 euros, but the penalties can rise up to 750 euros in the event of not wearing the fluorescent vest during an emergency stop.
Far from being simple administrative constraints, these rules aim to protect the lives of motorists. Indeed, during a breakdown or accident, visibility is essential to avoid another accident, particularly at night or in bad weather. On motorways, for example, the life expectancy of a pedestrian on the emergency lane does not exceed 2 minutes.
New technologies for security
The year 2024 marked a turning point in road safety with the introduction of the GSR2 regulations. This new European standard now requires cutting-edge equipment on new vehicles: automatic emergency braking, intelligent speed assistance (ISA), and lane keeping.
Although they represent an additional purchase cost, these innovations should make it possible to significantly reduce the number of accidents. Insurers are even considering a reduction in insurance premiums for vehicles equipped with these devices in order to partially compensate for the initial investment.
Particular attention is also paid to vehicle lighting. All lighting devices must be perfectly functional: main beam, dipped beam, rear fog, position, indicators, brake lights and license plate lighting. A failure can result in a fine of up to 450 euros, or even immobilization of the vehicle.
The tires are also part of the package: worn or defective tires subject to a maximum fine of 750 euros. This severe sanction is explained by the essential role of tires in road safety, particularly in the event of emergency braking or unfavorable weather conditions.
Reinforced control for the holidays
As the end-of-year holidays approach, the police are intensifying their checks. Motorists are therefore invited to regularly check the condition of their safety equipment. Particular attention must be paid to winter conditions: in certain regions, special equipment (snow tires, chains) becomes compulsory, under penalty of additional fines. So be vigilant and, above all, careful.
- The fluorescent vest and the warning triangle are compulsory under penalty of fines ranging from 135 to 750 euros
- Faulty lighting can cost up to 450 euros in fines
- Tires in poor condition are penalized up to 750 euros
