Big change at the start of 2025 for all road users. To avoid fines and accidents, all drivers will have to be extra vigilant.
An important change to the Highway Code has just come into force this Saturday, January 11, 2025, with significant consequences for all drivers. If this new rule of conduct should make certain road users happy, on the contrary it will annoy more than one, and even risks generating new conflict situations.
After more than three years of experimentation in more than twenty departments, a historic (not to say eternal) demand of motorcyclists and scooter riders has in fact been satisfied: inter-line circulation is now officially authorized for two and three -wheels. Stated objectives of the measure: decongest traffic and reduce road pollution.
Motorcycles, scooters and other motorized tricycles will now be able to slip between vehicles and go up lines of cars, a practice hitherto tolerated by the authorities, but absolutely not included in the highway code. It is now a done deal, but not under any conditions either, because the new regulations establish a clear framework.
First of all, inter-city traffic is only authorized on two-way roads, separated by a central reservation and with at least two lanes on each side. The maximum traffic speed must also be at least equal to 70 km/h, with the exception of the Paris ring road which, although limited to 50 km/h, benefits from an exemption.
In addition, traffic must be dense and congested, and inter-lane traffic can only take place between the two leftmost lanes of the roadway. Vehicles going up the lines must, finally, not be more than one meter wide, and must not travel at more than 50 km/h, or even 30 km/h in the case of a traffic jam with a line. completely stopped.
The new version of the Highway Code also provides for sanctions in the event of non-compliance with inter-lane traffic rules, namely a fixed fine of €135 and a withdrawal of 3 points from the driving license. On the other hand, two and three wheels will no longer be systematically considered responsible in the event of an accident.
This important development therefore concerns both motorcyclists and motorists, because everyone can now be held responsible. In order to avoid any unpleasant surprises with a two-wheeler going up a lane, it is therefore more than ever advisable to check (scrupulously) your blind spot with any lane change!