On French roads, a still little-known offense could cost you a lot of money if you don't pay attention to it. Indeed, there is a mistake that many drivers make at tolls. And it could well cost them dearly.
A heavy penalty for drivers
The Highway Code is quite formal on many points. And there are several that are known to many drivers. However, they sometimes forget that these famous rules must be respected everywhere.
So all motorists know that they are not allowed to use their cell phone while driving. And this applies for example to the drive-thru of a fast-food restaurant, but also to tolls. In fact, you are not allowed to pay with your smartphone.
And this, even if this solution may seem simple and practical. This behavior, although widespread, exposes drivers to severe sanctions. In any case, this is what our colleagues at Capital revealed.
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The Highway Code strictly prohibits the handling of a mobile phone while the vehicle is in circulation. Please note that this rule also applies when the car remains temporarily stationary. And this is also the case, even in front of a toll barrier.
Even when stopped, a vehicle in front of a toll booth remains considered “in circulation”. So this means that using the phone can cost drivers a fine. The simple act of taking out your smartphone to pay or check your cell phone is an offense.
The sanctions provided for are dissuasive. In fact, motorists risk a fine of 135 euros. The latter can reach 750 euros if drivers do not pay it on time. In addition, they could also lose three points on their driving license.
-Other means of payment to plan
The authorities insist on the importance of respecting this rule. Not only to avoid penalties, but also to ensure the safety of motorists on the road. Drivers who pay their tolls with a phone risk more than just a fine.
Sanctions can have significant repercussions, both administrative and financial. If this offense occurs with other risky behaviors, such as excessive speed or reckless driving, a temporary suspension of the license may occur.
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Such an infraction may also alert your insurer. The latter could therefore decide to increase your insurance premium or exclude certain contractual benefits. The priority objective remains to preserve the safety of everyone on the road.
Please note that simple solutions allow you to pay your toll without breaking the rules or risking penalties. The electronic toll badge represents a practical device which allows you to automatically cross barriers thanks to contactless.
Installed on the windshield of your vehicle, it saves you from having to handle your phone or bank card. Also note that most tolls in France now accept contactless payment. By simply holding your card close to the terminal, you can pay quickly and without using your smartphone.
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