Driving in France: Rules around when to use hazard lights
Drivers risk fines for misusing these warnings
Hazard lights should only be used in certain instances
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France’s driving safety rules housed in the Code de la Route contain regulations on all aspects of driving, and this is no different when it comes to hazard lights.
These lights (feux de détresse) are used by drivers in several situations, some of which are not only inappropriate and against the intended usage of the warning lights, but potentially an offence.
Two main uses for lights
The Code de la Route is clear that hazard lights are only to be used in certain emergency situations.
Article R416-19 states that hazard lights must be used “when a vehicle immobilised on the roadway constitutes a danger to traffic.”
This is the case “particularly near road intersections, bends, hilltops, level crossings and in cases of insufficient visibility, or when all or part of its load falls onto the roadway without being able to be immediately removed.”
This is the main reason for using the warning signal.
In addition, article R416-18 adds a second usage – hazard lights are required to be used when “any driver is forced to travel at a momentary reduced speed…to warn other road users they risk surprising [by the lower driving speed].”
Any usage outside of this is considered an illegal manoeuvre.
This includes actions such as warning drivers of upcoming police checks, speed cameras, or accidents, to inform them of an issue on their vehicle, or even as a signal to say ‘thank you’ to another driver, for example after they give way to you.
It also covers cases where you are using the lights to inform other drivers of an incoming action you are planning to take such as changing lanes or direction, braking, or parking.
What are the penalties for misuse?
There are two possible penalties for breaking these rules if caught.
If found in contravention of article R416-18, you risk a €35 fine.
However, if police believe you broke the rules of article R416-19, this can rise to €135.
These are also the fines issued if you fail to correctly use the lights as required under the two articles.
