Is a parking space available on the street where you are driving? Don’t rush into parking willy-nilly! You risk a large fine if you do not respect this little-known rule.
Finding a parking space can be a real headache, especially in big cities where underground parking is rare. Imagine going around in circles in the streets of Paris, desperately looking for a place to park your car. Suddenly, a space becomes available on the other side of the street. The temptation is great to cross quickly to grab it before it disappears. But be careful, this maneuver could cost you dearly.
According to the Highway Code in France, it is obligatory to park in the direction of traffic. This means you cannot cross the lane to park on the opposite side. This rule, enshrined in articles R. 417-1 and R. 417-4 of the Highway Code, is strict: all vehicles must be placed in the direction of travel. In other words, even if the square across the street is empty and attractive, you must resist temptation.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of 35 euros. This amount may seem relatively small, but it can quickly add up. Indeed, if you are caught in the act of parking in the wrong direction, the fine can be increased to 75 euros, or even 150 euros if you contest and lose before the police court.
But that’s not all. To park on the opposite side, you often have to cross a solid line or drive in the wrong direction, which constitute more serious offenses. Crossing a solid line is punishable by a fine of 135 euros and a withdrawal of three points on the license. As for driving in the wrong direction, it results in a fine of 135 euros and a deduction of four points. By accumulating these offenses, you could end up with a nice addition and a serious reduction in your license points.
To avoid these inconveniences, it is best to respect the parking rules. If you find a space on the other side of the street, make a proper U-turn to park there facing the direction of traffic. Not only will this save you from fines, but it will also guarantee your safety and that of other road users.