2. Great Driving
There are unbounded joys in driving along, by UK standards, an almost deserted road and many of the signs and systems seem much the same as a result of European integration. It is however the differences that matter, and woe betide the overseas driver who thinks driving will be the same as the country of their birth.
Introduction
Exploring the road system in France with some of its unique and unusual aspects.
Understanding the documents required
Official documents explained and a summary of what you need to carry with you, when and if you need to exchange originals for French equivalents and explanations of the French paperwork and requirements.
Who’s Who, what to do in an emergency and who to call
What do you do when you are stopped by the Gendarmes and, for example, what they are likely to do if you try to get out of the car.
Understanding the differences, and taking steps to avoid problems before they happen, is the key. The use of mobile telephones and the navigation information that you are permitted to download is different and getting it wrong can be heavily penalised.
Driving
Blue parking zones, air quality schemes, disabled parking, driving licences, driving with foreign plates, autoroutes, transporting animals, washing your car – a whole range of scenarios, rules and regulations that you must adhere to in order to have a safe and peaceful trip.
Insurance
Information on the obligations and contractual rules for insuring your vehicle in France.
Motorbikes, off-road vehicles, trailers
Weight limitations, what you can and cannot drive or tow and where you can drive. Any type of motorised vehicle must be approved and registered if you drive on the road. How do you know if your vehicle meets these rules? What paperwork can you expect/do you need when buying or selling and what are the sanctions for infringement of these rules?
Second-hand car parts, buying a second-hand car, garages and dealerships
Car purchase and car repair in France are different from other countries and you need to know what to do before you go to the garage.
Classic cars
How is a classic car registered in France, who to contact, how to do the paperwork and how does this impact driving and regulations.
Useful contacts and translations
Includes checklists of all items that you have to do, and things to carry in the car and hints on how to deal with many situations that you may face. A comprehensive list of situation-specific translations and contact details for official bodies.
Your “go-to” resource for everything you need to know before hitting the road in France. This book covers essential information on exchanging your driving licence, understanding the unique road rules, recognising the subtle differences between driving in France and other countries, navigating the process of acquiring a car and parts, dealing with accidents and emergencies on the road and keeping up to date with the rules and regulations.
Whether you are a tourist or a new resident, this book will equip you with the knowledge you need to drive safely and confidently in France. An essential read before you turn the ignition key.
A milage, sorry – kilometer - winner with 198 pages.
