Breakdown service is available round the clock throughout the French motorway network.
Is there a French equivalent of the AA?
France doesn’t have an equivalent of the AA or RAC, however many insurance companies provide breakdown insurance. Some comprehensive policies may include this, otherwise, you’ll need to purchase it as additional coverage.
Is breakdown cover compulsory in France?
If you’re driving to France, breakdown cover isn’t a legal requirement. But if you have car trouble while you’re away, it can definitely come in handy. For example, if you get a puncture and don’t have a spare, you can easily call for English-speaking help.
What should I do if I get into a car accident in France?
If you have a more serious car accident in France you should:
- Move to a safe place and alert oncoming traffic with the warning triangle.
- Contact the police or the gendarmes as soon as possible – make sure that you can give them details of your location:
Is there a breakdown service in France? – Related Questions
How much does it cost to be towed off a French motorway?
These charges are now: €138.01 for vehicles weighing no more than 1.8 tonnes (up from €131.94 in 2021); €170.65 for vehicles with a total weight greater than 1.8 tonnes and less than 3.5 tonnes (up from €163.15).
What do I do if I get into a car accident abroad?
If you’re involved in a road accident abroad, make sure the police are called and that you get a copy of the police report. If you don’t understand what you’re being told, ask for an interpreter. If possible: make notes about what happened.
When should you return your accident report form to your insurance company in France?
Making a Claim on Your French Car Insurance
This accident form must be sent to your insurance company within five days in order to make a claim on your insurance – it’s a good idea to send it to them regardless; it won’t work against you if a claim isn’t made.
How many accident report forms should be filled in Europe?
Tips for completing the European Accident Statement forms
Fill out two European Accident Statement forms with each driver involved in the accident so that each driver can send his European Accident Statement to his insurance company. The content of these European Accident Statements must be identical.
What is the penalty for driving without a license in France?
The most common road penal offences when driving in France are the following: Driving without driving licence: €800 the first time. If caught a second time you will have to go to court. Driving without insurance: €500 the first time.
Do the French really not care about their cars?
Generally speaking, the French don’t care much about their cars. Indeed, they see them more as a means to get from A to B rather than a status symbol. Therefore, they are fairly relaxed when it comes to small scratches or dents.
Can I have a beer and drive in France?
Drink driving limit
France has very strict drink driving laws. The French drink-driving limit is 50mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood. Sanctions and Penalties : Drivers found with between 50mg and 80mg of alcohol in your blood can be fined € 135 (£ 112).
How much can you go over the speed limit in France?
If the total weight is under 3.5t, then there is no difference to that of a normal car. However, if the total weight is over the threshold, then motorway driving is limited to 90 kph.
What are the speed limits in France?
Road Type |
Speed Lmit |
Main roads outside built up areas/A & B roads |
80 kph / 50 mph |
What does rappel mean on French road signs?
What does the French road sign ‘rappel’ mean? You’ll often see the word ‘rappel’ underneath speed limit signs in France. It translates as ‘reminder‘ and its purpose is to remind you that speed restrictions are still in place, so you need to stick to the specified limit.
Do speed cameras in France Flash?
Description: A new-generation mobile camera (also known as ETM – mobile terrain equipment) is a device installed on an unmarked patrol car, driven by uniformed gendarmes or police officers. Its function is to photograph all speeding vehicles, with no visible flash and while driving.
What does a yellow painted KERB mean in France?
Parking rules in France
A yellow painted line on a kerb is an indication to drivers that they cannot wait or park on that section of road.
Why do stop signs in France say stop?
Because the word “stop” is French a noun that marks a”stop”. The sign says what the place is, not the action to be done. Why does Quebec use “arrêt” for stop signs instead of “stop” like other French countries? “Stop” is a valid French word and used in France.
Can you turn right on red in France?
In France, a right turn on red without stopping is allowed when a separate arrow-shaped amber light flashes, but drivers do not have priority. They must check if any pedestrians are crossing before turning and must give way to vehicles coming from other directions. A sign can also permit cyclists to turn right on red.
Is it compulsory to carry a spare wheel in France?
Is it compulsory to carry a spare wheel in France? There is no legal requirement to carry a spare wheel as most cars no longer have them. However, you should make sure you check all your tyres before setting off. All motor vehicles and their trailers must have tyres with a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm.
Do you need a breathalyser in France 2022?
5. Breathalyser kit. You may be aware that up until recently, all drivers and motorcyclists had to carry a personal breathalyser kit with at least two disposable testing units. However, in 2020 the rule changed to no longer make it a legal requirement.
Is driving in France difficult?
Driving in France really is nothing to worry about. At first you will feel a little strange driving on the ‘wrong’ side of the road, but the process is really quite straightforward.