Clé France

I thought the French government had introduced a law requiring motorists to have a breathalyser with them at all times, but my French friends tell me this is not the case. When I consulted the AA at Eurotunnel, however, I was told it is still a requirement. Who is right? WL, Tunbridge Wells.

The truth lies between the two. The law states that all drivers in France — including visitors — have to carry at least one fully functioning and in-date breathalyser, known in French as an "éthylotest".

In practice this means at least two testers on board, because they are single-use devices, so when one has been used, another must be on board to allow the journey to be continued lawfully. At present, however, there is no penalty for those who break the law.

The fine was going to be a mere €11 (£9) but there was stiff opposition to the law, not least because several independent magazine tests suggested that many breathalysers were inaccurate. The French government has indefinitely postponed enforcement but to save face has left the law in place. The outcome is that while drivers are required to have a working breathalyser on board, there is no consequence if they don’t.

In France breathalysers are commonly available for the price of €2 for two, so it’s not a bad idea to pick up a pack next time you are there — should you be stopped by the gendarmes you will at least be seen to be complying with road rules.

Note that the maximum permitted concentration of alcohol in the blood of drivers on French roads is 0.5mg/ml, as opposed to the UK’s considerably more tolerant 0.8mg/ml. 

Article originally appeared in "The Sunday Times" Driving supplement.

Blog submitted by: Alex at The French Property Network - Cle France.