July 1st 2015: Headphones banned in France!

In France, from today, listening to music, radio or talking on the phone using headphones or any type of audio headset whilst driving a vehicle or riding your bike is prohibited.

Measure No 22 of the Action Plan for Road Safety announced by Bernard Cazeneuve in January 2015 comes into force today – Wednesday, July 1, 2015. The road safety measure aims to prevent car accidents caused by distraction by sounds and noises.

Research suggest that drivers are 30% to 50% less aware of road information whilst driving and talking on the phone. Those driver caught will be fined €135 and will have three points taken off their licence. The new law is being publicised with a radio campaign launched by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

For more information please see http://infolettre.securite-routiere.gouv.fr/cp-oreillettes/ (please note this site is only available in French)