You don't have this equipment in your car ? You risk a fine of €135 to €750

© National Gendarmerie

French motorists must be extra vigilant regarding their mandatory safety equipment. Two accessories in particular are in the crosshairs of law enforcement: the fluorescent vest and the warning triangle. Their absence can be very costly, 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 climb 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, in the event of a breakdown or an accident, visibility is essential to avoid further accidents, 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 at the service of safety

The year 2024 marked a turning point in road safety with the introduction of the GSR2 regulation. 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 cost at the time of purchase, these innovations should significantly reduce the number of accidents. Insurers are even considering lowering insurance premiums for vehicles equipped with these devices in order to partially offset the initial investment.

Vehicle lighting is also the subject of particular attention. 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.

Tires are also part of the package: worn or defective tires are subject to a maximum fine of 750 euros. This severe penalty is explained by the essential role of tires in road safety, particularly in the event of emergency braking or adverse weather conditions.

Increased control during the holidays

As the end-of-year holidays approach, law enforcement is stepping up its checks. Motorists are therefore advised to regularly check the condition of their safety equipment. Particular attention should be paid to winter conditions: in some regions, special equipment (snow tires, chains) becomes mandatory, under penalty of additional fines. So be vigilant and, above all, careful.

• The fluorescent vest and the warning triangle are mandatory 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 fined up to 750 euros

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