Driving In France, Page 2, Driving Laws In France, Safety Requirements, Car Seats
- Seatbelt use is required in France.
On the highway, keep to the right except to pass, Speed limits for clear days and lower
limits for rainy days, and reduced speed for exits make France's highways familiar to
the North American driver.
- Lights on in low visibility
Gassing your vehicle is similar to the procedure in the US including the self service
feature, automatic shut off pumps, and the use of the credit card. Diesel is common in
France and called Gazole.
- All cell phone use is prohibited while driving including those with headsets.
Radar detectors are prohibited. Possession ore use is subject to a fine.
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A diesel vehicle will be less expensive to run. When gassing. Note that fuel will be less expensive at the local
filling station or Market in the small town or village than on the highway. Diesel is called diesel or Gazole in
France.
In France, traffic entering a rotary from
the right had the right of way for
years. This law has changed but the
habit lingers. Signs often denote right
of way.
Use caution in the rotary and on
country roads when there is traffic
entering from your right
When entering a town slow to 50 km
Vehicle in the rotary has the
right of way
Driving in France requires safety equipment which should be supplied
by the rental agency. Order a car seat and stroller well ahead of your
arrival. The rental agent should supply the required safety equipment:
colored reflective vest and warning triangle.
The vehicle should have a reflective
warning triangle and a reflective jacket
on board in case of breakdown or flat tire
Children under ten should not ride in the
front seat. Small children should have a
car seat. Seat belt use in all seats is
mandatory.
Car seats are available from the rental
agency.
Baby carriages are also available to rent
at the car rental agency.
The vehicle should have a reflective
warning triangle in case of flat tire or
breakdown.
The vehicle must have a reflective jacket
on board in case of breakdown.
In snow areas the vehicle should be
equipped with snow tires or chains.
The International driving Permit is
not required in France.
Driving In France requires that Children under ten do not ride in
the front seat. Small children require a car seat. Book a child seat
with the rental agency ahead. Seat belt use in all seats is
mandatory. Safety Vest and triangle in trunk
Driving In France, gas
stop highway rest area.
Return the rental car with an empty tank? See Policy details
Auto Europe offers selection, price, and ease of booking on the web. . Shop
online well ahead of your trip and choose diesel or gas, luggage space,
standard or automatic, two door, four door and other options. Renting for
more than 17 days; see their options
Speed limits will be clearly marked and the Rotary will be a welcome site with its directions to various towns.
Gassing up is similar to US with credit card and automatic shut-off at modern pumps. Car rental are available in all
large cities and at many TGV Train Stations.
Information for those renting a vehicle in France and Italy

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