When it’s raining or visibility is reduced due to fog or other adverse weather, the speed limit on French motorways is lowered to enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Dual carriageways (roads with a central reservation separating opposing lanes of traffic) outside built-up areas have this standard speed limit for smoother traffic flow and safety.

This limit applies to major single-carriageway roads (often designated as ’A’ or ’B’ roads) located outside of towns and cities, balancing speed with safety on undivided roadways.

This is the default speed limit for driving within French towns, cities, and villages to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users in populated areas.

Due to its high traffic volume and urban environment, the circular ring road surrounding Paris has a specific speed limit lower than typical motorways or dual carriageways.

This is the most common speed restriction encountered when driving through urban areas in France, unless specific signage indicates a different limit.

Many residential zones in French urban areas have reduced speed limits to 30 km/h to create quieter, safer environments for residents, especially children and the elderly.

France has a relatively strict legal BAC limit for all experienced drivers, aiming to minimize alcohol-related traffic accidents. This limit is lower than in some other European countries.

New drivers with less than three years of experience face a much stricter BAC limit, reflecting a zero-tolerance approach to alcohol consumption for those with less driving experience.

This is the general legal BAC threshold for drivers who have held their full license for more than three years and are not operating commercial vehicles with stricter regulations.

Explanation: Professional drivers responsible for the safety of multiple passengers are subject to the same very low BAC limit as novice drivers, emphasizing passenger safety.

Exceeding the standard BAC limit but staying below 0.8 g/L results in a significant fine and a substantial deduction of points from the driver’s license, potentially leading to suspension.

Driving with a high BAC in France is considered a serious criminal offense, carrying severe penalties including hefty fines and the possibility of imprisonment, depending on the severity.

While previously mandatory, the law requiring drivers to carry a breathalyzer kit in their personal vehicles has been abolished, although drivers can still choose to carry one voluntarily.