Like many people, you have probably already eaten or drunk while driving. But what exactly does the Highway Code say on this subject? Is this legal? Drink or drive, should you choose?
Perhaps you have already happened, due to lack of time or because of a sudden craving, to indulge in snacking while you are behind the wheel. Whether it’s because you spend your days driving as part of your job, you have a long journey to get to your vacation spot, you’re late for work or you don’t have everything simply don’t want to stop, the temptation can be great to drink or eat while you are driving.
But is it really legal? Because, as you know, the Highway Code doesn’t joke about bans! So, you are not allowed to call while driving, of course, but also to put on makeup, hold a smartphone in your hand, wear a headset or headphones, or even drive wearing flip-flops. But what about eating and drinking?
The answer is recorded in article R.412-6 of the Highway Code, dating from 2001 and amended in 2008. It states that “Every driver must remain constantly in a condition and position to carry out conveniently and without delay all the maneuvers incumbent upon him. His possibilities of movement and his field of vision must not be reduced by the number or position of passengers, by objects transported or by affixing non-transparent objects to the windows.”
As you can see, there is no law strictly prohibiting eating or drinking while driving, or even rummaging in your glove box. But there is, however, a small nuance. Indeed, if the text of the law does not in itself sanction the action of eating or quenching one’s thirst while driving, this is the case for the fact of not being able to carry out all the maneuvers required in the framework of conduct. The assessment of the situation and the verbalization are therefore left to the discretion of the police.
If they witness a danger due to a person eating or drinking while driving, they may fine the driver of the vehicle. Note that certain behaviors are considered particularly risky, such as not having both hands on the steering wheel in order to be able to support oneself while driving, particularly in the event of overtaking.
Sanctions relating to dangerous driving are equivalent to a second class fine. The fine therefore amounts to €35, but it can be reduced to €22 if you decide to pay it within 3 days following hand-delivery of the ticket or within 15 days if sent by mail. postal. It can also be increased to €75 in the event of late payment. But, unlike calling while driving, no points can be deducted from you for these actions.
Be careful, inattentive driving is not the only action that can be punished. For example, smoking is prohibited in the presence of a minor. And, there, it’s no longer a joke since this action is punishable by a fine of up to €750.