By John Simpson 13 August 2012
British motorists heading to France this summer are being reminded that sat navs with in-built speed camera location detectors are illegal.
The AA says that British drivers using their company car abroad should be aware that they could face fines of up to €1,500, even if the device is not in use.
"Mere possession of a device that has the capability to provide this information, even if it's not being used at the time, is sufficient to be breaking the law and an on-the-spot fine is very likely,” explained AA DriveTech's Marketing Director David Richards.
France-bound motorists are recommended to contact the manufacturer of the satnav and ask if a software or database update is available that will actually remove camera data for France from the device. For sat nav system built into the vehicle, contact the vehicle manufacturer.
The sat nav rule has been in place since the start of 2012 and preceded legislation introduced in July which now requires motorists to carry a breathalyser at all times when driving in France.
"We would also wish to remind fleet drivers about the potential distraction effects of any interactive, in-vehicle information system," adds Richards.
"These can increase risk considerably, even when drivers are on familiar territory. When driving on the right hand side of the road however it can take vital milliseconds longer to retain full concentration and control."
The French government is removing road signs that indicate the location of fixed speed camera sites as well as installing 400 new fixed speed cameras, according to the AA.
Categories: Fleet news , AA
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