We challenge you to identify the meaning of this traffic sign. Here’s what you should know before coming across this road sign, still unknown to thousands of motorists. It comes into force in the Aix community from now on.
With the densification of the French road network, every innovation aimed at streamlining traffic is welcome. This is why more and more new regulations are coming into force, making your travel easier while reducing environmental impact. One of them particularly attracts attention. Part of an eco-responsible approach, it is essential to know its meaning if you want to avoid a hefty fine, i.e. 135 euros.
You can see it in Lille, Lyon, Grenoble, Strasbourg, Rennes or even Nantes, so keep your eyes peeled! Generally present on multi-lane roads, this traffic sign surprises many drivers, who are still too little informed about the driving rules to adopt. It is a square panel on a blue background representing a white diamond. But what does this indicate? We are not talking, here, about a direction of traffic, a parking zone or even an option available on a motorway rest area…
No, according to the decree of August 24, 2020, this signage recommended by the Mobility Orientation Law (LOM) of 2019 then by the climate and resilience law of 2021 consists of “materialize a lane reserved for public transport vehicles, taxis, vehicles carrying a minimum number of occupants including the driver, particularly in the context of carpooling (…) or vehicles with very low emissions” As you will have understood, only certain categories of vehicles are authorized to travel on this reserved lane located on the left.
These are vehicles with at least two people on board., but not only. Very low emission vehicles, which display the Crit’Air o sticker, can also circulate there. Finally, public transport vehicles and taxis are also authorized on this route. On the other hand, if you are alone in your car, you are prohibited from driving there, at the risk of receiving a fine of 135 euros.
Please note, this traffic sign has some variations depending on the cities where it is located. In Lille, for example, the signaling is only activated when traffic increases, the sign then becomes illuminated. In Strasbourg, lanes dedicated to carpooling are set up during the week exclusively and at certain times: Monday to Friday, from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The precision is then written below the panel. Enough to redouble your vigilance!