Road safety in France

Cyclists must, by law, abide by the regulations of the French Highway Code. If you break the traffic regulations, you may be liable to a fine.

Our British friends must be careful, in keeping with French regulations, to keep on the right-hand side of the road. Also take particular care at crossroads and roundabouts; with the latter, traffic will come from the left. At intersections where there are no signs, vehicles coming from the right have priority.

Further Safety Advice

• Always take care on roads, particularly at junctions and on bridges.
• Never cycle two or more abreast and always keep well to the right-hand side of the road.
• Make clear hand signals when you intend to turn right or left.
• If cycling by night or in darkness, it is compulsory to wear a reflective jacket famous gilet jaune and have effective lights.
• On greenways, give pedestrians priority and signal to them in advance that you’re passing.
• Wear a well-fitting helmet.

The use of helmets on bicycles 

• Bicycle helmets are required for children under 12 years of age. And whether they are drivers or passengers of a bicycle.
• Bicycle helmets are not mandatory for adults but are widely recommended !

Your Responsabilities

• Remember that whenever you cycle, you do so at your own risk and that you are responsible for any accidents that occur to you or to a third party as a result of your not respecting the traffic regulations laid down in the French Highway Code, the prevailing traffic conditions or dangers in your surroundings that could normally be anticipated. 
• You should be insured against civil liability.