France Requiring On-Board Breathalyzer Kits

All vehicles being driven in France soon will be required to carry a Breathalyzer kit, with the government saying motorists can use the equipment to test themselves before they take to the road.

The U.K.’s Institute of Advanced Motorists says the law applies to those visiting France as well, even just for a day trip, as of July 1. Starting in November there will be an €11 ($14.56) fine for non-compliance.

IAM says that of the almost 6 million trips by private vehicles from the U.K. to other European Union countries in 2009, two-thirds did not go beyond France, 9% went to Ireland, 7% to Belgium, 6% to the Netherlands, 4.5% to Germany, 3% to Poland and 2% to Spain.

The legal limit in France is 0.05% blood-alcohol content, significantly lower than the U.K.’s 0.08% limit.

IAM says single-use Breathalyzer kits costing between £1 and £2 ($1.58 and $3.16) will satisfy the requirement and will be available at ferry and tunnel terminals for crossings to France.

Motorists are being advised to always carry at least two Breathalyzers, so that if they use one before driving they will have one to use if stopped by police.

“The new French rule is a genuine attempt to reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents,” IAM Policy and Research Director Neil Greig says in a statement.

“France’s lower limit means it’s very easy to be over the limit the morning after, as well. As always, the best advice for motorists is not to drink and drive at all.”

Anyone driving in France already is required to carry a warning triangle and a fluorescent safety vest to use in an emergency.