With an expected nine million passengers to cross the channel by car this year, the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) is warning motorists of a new piece of French legislation. From 1 July 2008, it is compulsory to have a reflective jacket on board a vehicle with four wheels or more.
Neil Greig, Director of the IAM Motoring Trust said: “This new legislation means any person planning to drive in France must carry a reflective jacket. It’s worth investing in one, before you leave, to ensure you don’t end up with a nasty fine when you’re on holiday. It would be a shame to get your collar felt for the lack of a legal jacket.
In an emergency, the jacket must be easily accessible by the driver and must be put on before leaving the car, day or night, regardless of visibility. As of 1 October 2008, any person found not complying will face a 135 euro fine (90 euro if paid early).
Mr Greig added: “People tend to go into ‘holiday mode’ when away and don’t expect to break down or be involved in an accident. But, research shows you’re actually three times more likely to be involved in an accident when abroad. Being fully prepared will really help take some of the stress out of a bad situation.”
This week the IAM has prepared some simple tips to help you understand what it is a motorist need to know whilst driving abroad, for more information visit www.iam.org.uk
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
1.Issued by the IAM Press Office, telephone 020 8996 9777. We have an ISDN line for interviews.
2. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland.
3. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.
4. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.
