France bans use of mobile phones by drivers unless vehicle is properly parked

DRIVERS in France have been warned that it is illegal to use mobile phones in their vehicles even if they have pulled over and turned their hazard lights on at the side of the road.

The Court of Appeal has ruled that drivers are still 'in circulation' even if they have pulled over, and the ruling comes after a driver was fined when he was parked, with his vehicle's hazard lights on, on the right side of a roundabout.

Drivers caught using their phone face a fine of up to €135 and will see three points added to their driving license, and applies to the use of mobile phones in the hand and not to cars fitted with hands-free sets.

Vehicle drivers are warned that they must be properly parked in a designated parking area before using their phones, although drivers of cars that have broken down that are on the side of the road due to not being able to drive further, are permitted to use their mobile phones to call for assistance.