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Violent storms forecast for south-west France for Sunday afternoon
Eight departments placed on orange alert by Météo-France
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Drivers’ group warns over unsafe condition of French roads
40 Millions d’automobilistes calls on drivers to report potholes, cracked surfaces and collapsing verges via mobile app
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New direct ferry to link northern France and Ireland from June
Route between Cork and Boulogne-sur-Mer to run six times a week
New French law on e-scooters
Contrary to common belief, it is currently not legal to use electric kick scooters – trottinettes – on public roads, pavements or cycle paths.
They should only be used on private land but this is set to change with a new law coming into force in September.
A decree will clarify that they can be used on roads or cycle lanes but not pavements.
Default rules, which can be altered by local bylaws, will limit use to roads with a 50kph or less limit in built-up areas. In open countryside, they may only be used on cycle lanes and voies vertes, currently reserved for walkers and cyclists.
Users will have to wear a reflective vest or armband at night or in poor visibility, and electric scooters must be equipped with front and back lights, reflectors, a brake and a horn.
Helmets are recommended but not obligatory and speeds should be limited to 20kph.
Non-motorised versions are deemed legally similar to pedestrians.
