Unnecessarily driving in the middle lane in France can result in a fine

Drivers in France need to be aware of several rules on the roads, particularly on motorways.

As driving habits evolve, some rules can be forgotten or are deliberately ignored, however they are still part of France’s Code de la Route (driving safety rules) and if caught breaking them drivers can be fined. 

One such example is unnecessarily driving in the middle lane of a motorway. 

The rules are clear, with Article R412-9 of the Code stating “When driving normally, all drivers must keep their vehicle close to the right edge of the roadway, as far as the road's condition or profile allows.” 

This means in theory that except in times of traffic, the middle line of a motorway should only be used to overtake a vehicle, with the driver then returning to the right-hand lane. 

Many drivers knowingly break rules

In practice however this rule is not always followed. 

Some 40% of drivers admitted in a recent poll that they drive in the middle lane as opposed to only using it for overtaking. 

At nights and weekends, where roads are often quieter, this number rises to 57%. 

The manoeuvre is becoming more common, prior to 2012, less than 33% of drivers admitted to the action. Reasons for doing so include comfort and keeping a more constant speed when driving. 

However, it can be dangerous, leading to confusion for other drivers and causing vehicles to undertake using the right-hand lane.

If caught driving in the central lane without a valid reason drivers can be fined €35 by authorities.