Anyone who does not know this traffic sign risks a high fine
Delicious food, good wine, fascinating cultural sights and impressive tourist attractions – France has a lot to offer and accordingly attracts millions of holidaymakers from Germany every year. The neighboring country is particularly popular for short breaks and city trips because of the relatively short journey. However, drivers should definitely find out about the traffic rules in France before their trip: The country introduced a new traffic sign in 2020 that is now being used more and more. It is a white diamond on a blue background, known in France as “voie réservée”.
France wants to improve traffic flow
The new regulation affects individual lanes on motorways – so far mainly around Lyon, Grenoble and Strasbourg. However, other cities such as Rennes and Nantes are already working on implementation.
Wherever the relatively new traffic sign is located, according to the Center for European Consumer Protection, a lane is reserved for certain road users. In addition to public transport vehicles, taxis, particularly low-emission cars with the “Crit’Air 0” environmental sticker, this also includes vehicles with at least two passengers. The goal that France is pursuing with this is to improve traffic flow on its motorways.
Fine of up to 135 euros
According to the information available, the restricted use of the lane can apply all day or only for certain time windows – for example during rush hour. In the latter case, the times are indicated under the sign. However, a digital display that shows the sign at these times is also permitted. But no matter what form the traffic sign takes, road users should definitely adhere to it: Anyone who uses the reserved lane illegally and is caught could face a fine of up to 135 euros.
