Breath Test Kit - France.

[Stew Mc]

Hi All.
I know this topic has been spoken about before but this is the latest info I have seen on the subject of breath test kits when driving in France. Thought it may be of interest to some of you?

The French Government has issued new law

February 2012 adding a new Article to the Highway Code, mandating that
drivers must carry a breathalyser in all vehicles with effect from 1st July
2012.

The breathalyser must meet the conditions of validity, including expiry date.
The breathalyser shall have a certification mark or mark of the manufacturer
ensuring that the breathalyser is compliant with all French Regulations.

It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that this requirement is met.

This law will be enforced from 1st November 2012.

Cheers, Stew.

[Mr Clifford]

Well at least that's after I go to le mans !

[phillpot]

Think they've got one in here.....?

[blues3]

Presumably that applies to Brit drivers on holidays in France too.

If so where does one purchase the approved unit?

[phillpot]

http://www.breathalyserdirect.co.uk/

I'd be most surprised if the ferry companies didn't cash in on selling them too !

[Deeman]

Has anyone got an understanding of the logic behind this? Is it to save the french police on the cost of their own equipment or maintenance of their equipment. It surely can't be so we can test ourselves to see if we are safe to drive because that WOULD be crass. If it is, are we expected to then have a spare to use when stopped by these eurocrats? Can't really see the logic with this.

[Le TVR]

Knowing EU legislation, the logic could pan out like this:

i) Some vehicles are already required to have a breathalyser conected to the ignition system. If you don't blow zero, it doesn't start

ii) Vehicles not included in (i) must have a breathalyser kit in the vehicle

Coming soon:

ALL vehicles to have a breathalyser connected to the ignition system.

Of course they don't see how this can be defeated, no

[TVR-Stu]

Anyone know what the penalty is likely to be for not carrying one?

[phillpot]

TVR-Stu said:

Anyone know what the penalty is likely to be for not carrying one?

[AutoAndy]

Deeman said:

Has anyone got an understanding of the logic behind this?

Yes, its because thay are utter t@??*!s

[TVR-Stu]

phillpot said:

I was waiting for a smart arse response and sure enough.......
Mike you must have to much time on your hands.

[Le TVR]

TVR-Stu said:

Anyone know what the penalty is likely to be for not carrying one?

11 euro

Did you know that the Gendarmes went on strike recently because one of their 'perks' was stopped?

The perk in question was the free glass of wine with their lunch.

[SAGRIFF]

Le TVR said:

11 euro

Did you know that the Gendarmes went on strike recently because one of their 'perks' was stopped?

The perk in question was the free glass of wine with their lunch.

good on em, you have to love the French.

[TVR-Stu]

Le TVR said:

11 euro

Not the end of the world then if you do get caught without one. It's just a pain that the breathalysers have a limited lifespan otherwise I'd be okay with bunging one in the glovebox and forgetting about it.

[Longers]

But you don't want to give the French plod any excuse to make you empty everything from the car so they can check every inch of it looking for something to fine you over while they go through all of your documents for ages and ages... Don't ask me how I know! Best to get one I think

[Mr Plow]

Longers said:

Best to get one I think

Or six from the link above.

[Le TVR]

Mr Plow said:

Longers said:

Best to get one I think

Or six from the link above.

They are not going to be issuing any fines for this until the end of the year. If you're found without one then they will probably give you a pamphlet to explains the new law.

However, DO make sure that your satnav has been updated in line with the new requirements for the French speed camera database. That one WILL be expensive if you are caught.
Check with the manufacturer for the update.

[v8s4me]

Are we seriously bothering to look for any logical or rational explanation here? This is the FRENCH interrupting Euro legislation. Things like logic, rationality or common sense wont be found here. Unless you approach it from the bloody minded FRENCH angle, ie how can we pass our time by making life as difficult as possible for English tourists who want to come over here and spend their money in our economy? Then it all makes sense.