Petition challenges speed camera placement at roadworks on French motorway

A newly installed speed camera on a motorway in eastern France has sparked frustration among motorists, with many claiming its placement is dangerous, leading to a petition being launched.

The issue concerns a section of road heading towards Paris where the speed limit was recently reduced from 90 km/h to 70 km/h. Drivers say the change, combined with poorly positioned signage, has created confusion and led to unexpected fines.

The camera is located on the A344 motorway through Reims, just before the Reims-Centre exit, on the edge of the Coulée Verte and near a slip road. It has reportedly issued numerous fines to unsuspecting drivers, with the 70 km/h sign said to be positioned too low and difficult to see in time.

Since construction began in early April on a new pedestrian bridge, a zone with two temporary speed cameras has been installed, each facing one side of the road, much to the dismay of drivers using this route. However, it is the one in the direction of Paris that has been the source of drivers’ problems.

In response, a petition has been launched by Ambre, calling for the relocation of the sign or for it to be made more visible. She argues that clearer signage would not only reduce the number of fines issued but also improve road safety. According to her, drivers often brake suddenly upon spotting the camera flash, increasing the risk of accidents and causing unnecessary traffic disruption.

The issue has triggered outrage among regular users of the route, many of whom claim they were unaware of the change due to inadequate signage.

“Hello, a very poor sign, not visible at all! It's blatant extortion; this radar is a financial jackpot, it never stops flashing!!” writes Sylvie in the petition comments.

“This speed camera is simply a great business for legally stealing our money. And the worst part is that it increases the likelihood of having an accident. At night, it's impossible to avoid getting flashed if you're not aware of the camera. Simply terrible,” adds Alexander.

“This route is used very regularly. Many colleagues have been caught out... The sign is completely invisible. After the fuel price, now the fines!!! It's a disgrace!!!” says Florence.

“The size of the signs for a three-lane road is completely non-compliant. They are single-lane departmental road signs. Every day, drivers slam on their brakes when the flash goes off. The signs are far too close to the speed cameras. Drivers at night will have to guess that the signs are there. In the event of an accident resulting in injury, those responsible must be held accountable within a strict legal framework,” continues Alexander.

As frustration grows, the petition continues to gather support, with 989 drivers having already signed it.