IMPORTANT - new 80km/h speed limit

[Brian]

I hope most of you are aware of this but if not, please read!

On 1st July 2018, speed limits on many roads have changed.

ANY road that used to have a 90km/h limit, and that does not have a central reservation to divide the road into two separated carriageways will now carry a limit of 80km/h.

It is yet to be confirmed what the limit will be when it is wet. It is widely anticipated that a 70km/h limit will be in force whenit's raining. Apparently signs "will make this clear"...

I noticed on a drive today that all of the 'Rappel - 90km/h' signs seem to have been replaced with 'Rappel- 90km/h so at least we are being warned!

I have read in the French press that speed cameras have been reprogrammed centrally, and the traffic police have been told to be especially vigilant in the early days.

If you are caught doing between 80km/h and 90km/h the penalty will be a fine of (I think) €68 plus 1 demerit point.

Keep those eyes peeled!
Brian

[Brian]

I see that the government has now decided to allow regions to reconsider the 80kph limit with many reckoned to favour re-introducing 90kph limits on many roads. Does anyone know what the policy is in the Vienne?

[Admiral]

I see that the government has now decided to allow regions to reconsider the 80kph limit with many reckoned to favour re-introducing 90kph limits on many roads. Does anyone know what the policy is in the Vienne?

Difficult one to call here.  The Vienne was very much in favour of the 80kph limit when it came in.

However, since it started, there has been much outcry against it from the motoring public. Not surprising really but I must say from personal experience, driving frequently on the RN147 is more dangerous now than it was before.  Overtaking on crazy bends etc etc.

I know from the dead tree press some regions in France have reported no increase in road deaths while others say the situation has got worse.

My guess is that the extra-terrestial hologram that is President Macron and his government will produce miraculous statistics hailing the experiment a resounding success.  There again there are lies, damn lies and statistics.

Which way the Vienne will jump in the event of a free vote is anybodys guess.  Mine is they will play safe and toe the government 80kph line.  Bad move in my opinion.