The French highway code was updated in March to cater to the various new vehicles that now share the road. We look at the new meanings introduced for two old signs - and a traffic light change.
All road signs intended for cyclists now also apply to people using engins de déplacement personnel motorisés (EDPMs), or personal transporters, following a government decree on March 23.
The EDPM category of vehicle includes powered transporters, electric rideables, personal light electric vehicles and personal mobility devices, such as hoverboards.
Cities around the world are having to come to terms with a wide range of electric rideables and light electric vehiclesTricky_Shark/ BalkansCat / The Old Major / Henk Vrieselaar / Shutterstock
For drivers this means that they are now expected to be aware that people using EDPMs have a right to use cycle lanes, and must give them the right of way as appropriate.
This traffic light applies to cyclists independently of other traffic lights. It now also applies to all EDPMS.Sécurité routière
This sign gives cyclists the right to go through red traffic lights in order to turn in the direction indicated, on condition that there is no oncoming traffic. This right is now extended to EDPMsSécurité routière
This sign, often seen on access roads to motorways, indicates that bicycle access is forbidden. It now also applies to all EDPMS.Sécurité routière
New rights, but also stiff fines
People do not need a licence to use an EDPM, however, they can still face fines:
Not respecting the flow of traffic or carrying another passenger: €135
Riding on a road that is not permitted (motorway, dual carriageway, roads next to a cyclepath): €135
Riding on the pavement: €135
Going faster than the authorised speed for EDPMs (25km/h): €1,500
Not wearing a high-visibility vest or reflective material in the dark: €35
Towing someone or being towed: €35
People on EDPMs also have the obligation to use cycle lanes, wherever they are present.
