Motorists reminded to buy breathalyser kits when travelling to France

Date: 20/2/2012

Any British motorists driving in France will soon have to make sure they keep a breathalyser kit in their car at all times.

This is because, from July 1st, this will be compulsory for all road users in France, even if they are just passing through the country.

The legal limit in France is 50mg per 100ml, compared with the limit of 80mg in the UK.

The purpose of the scheme is to encourage motorists to test themselves and the Institute of Advanced Motorists urged people to carry two kits so they have a spare in case they use one but are then stopped by police.

Director of Policy and Research at the organisation Neil Greig said: "France's lower limit means it's very easy to be over the limit the morning after as well."

He said the initiative is intended to reduce the number of accidents on French roads and people will be fined €11 (£9) from November if they are found without a breathalyser kit.

Last month, figures published by the Association of Chief Police Officers showed 7,124 drivers were arrested for drink driving between December 1st 2011 and January 1st 2012.

Poster by Nick Anderson