In this summer, the habits of motorized two-wheelers have changed. Many drivers have dropped appropriate reflective jackets and pants. Flip flops, t-shirts and shorts are now out. Is such light clothing permitted by French law? What are the mandatory protections?
According to article R431-1 of the Highway Code, wearing a helmet is mandatory for all drivers or passengers of a moped. It must be attached and approved. The French standard is marked by a white label and guarantees the quality of its manufacture and protection. In case of non-wearing the helmet, the driver is liable to a fine of € 135 and a withdrawal of 3 points on his license.
Gloves are also mandatory for PTW riders. Since November 2016, the wearing of gloves approved, for the pilot as the passenger, is mandatory. This accessory is intended to resist abrasion, tearing or tearing. According to road safety figures, wearing thick gloves helps to reduce or prevent hand injuries in 95% of cases for motorcyclists and 87% of cases for moped riders.
A quarter of the deaths in 2016
Since January 2016, the need for a yellow safety vest has been extended to PTW drivers. There is no obligation to wear it while riding, however. This “high visibility vest” becomes indispensable in the case of drivers getting off their vehicle following an emergency stop. They incur a fine of € 11 if they are stopped without a vest on board and € 135 if they do not wear it while they are stopped on the road.
Only these three elements are therefore qualified as mandatory by French legislation. Nothing prohibits drivers of motorcycles or scooters to ride in beachwear. Failure to wear appropriate jackets or trousers is in no way punishable.
More road stops
If full equipment is not required, however, it is strongly recommended. As a reminder, PTW drivers accounted for only 2% of traffic, but nearly a quarter of the road deaths in France in 2016. 70% of motorcyclists dropped at least once in 2016. Nearly half of them were injured. According to road safety, a large part of these injuries is due to incomplete equipment. 16% of scooter drivers did not own any equipment. In the PACA region, as reported by France 3 Provence, the authorities have decided to reinforce roadside checks during this summer period to try to make bikers aware of the risks of accidents.