Paris, September 1 – A new speed camera installed at Porte de Montreuil, at kilometer point 30.960 on the Parisian périphérique extérieur, has been met with considerable discontent from drivers. The camera, active since August 24, enforces a temporary speed limit of 30 km/h, a measure that has prompted complaints of increased congestion and inconvenience.
Temporary Measure for Urban Transformation Project
The 30 km/h speed limit is a temporary measure implemented in anticipation of a major urban transformation project planned by the City of Paris. This extensive initiative, expected to be completed around 2030, includes a partial covering of the périphérique and the creation of a large green public square, as reported by L’Auto Journal.
However, the new camera, strategically placed behind a barrier to flash vehicles from the rear, has not been welcomed by all. “It’s not normal, we can’t drive anymore,” expressed one annoyed motorist to BFMTV, reflecting a sentiment shared by many.
Another driver lamented, “The périphérique is already limited to 50 km/h; this will create even more traffic jams. Circulation will be even more difficult than it is currently.”
Preventive Tool Amidst Reduced Lanes
Sophie Sainten, General Delegate of the Road Safety Prevention association, emphasized that the measure is temporary and justified by the narrowing of traffic lanes in that specific area. She clarified that the speed limit remains 50 km/h before and after this particular zone.
“The camera should be seen as a preventive tool because the conditions are different,” Sainten explained on BFMTV. She highlighted the critical role of appropriate speed in road safety, stating that “29% of road accidents are linked to inappropriate or excessive speed.”
Penalties for Speeding Violations
Exceeding the 30 km/h limit on this section of the road can result in a fine of 135 euros and a deduction of one point from the driving license. For speeds exceeding the limit by 20 to 29 km/h, the penalty increases to two points deducted, with the same fine amount.
Further violations escalate the consequences:
- 30 to 39 km/h over the limit: Three points deducted.
- 40 to 49 km/h over the limit: Four points deducted and an almost systematic suspension of the driving license, according to L’Auto-Journal.
- 50 km/h or more over the limit (i.e., 80 km/h in this zone): This constitutes a criminal offense, carrying a potential fine of up to 3,750 euros, three months imprisonment, and a deduction of six points from the license.
This new speed camera joins 14 other cameras already present on the Parisian périphérique, which typically enforce a 50 km/h speed limit. The périphérique is a crucial artery, with nearly one million vehicles passing through it daily.
The installation of this camera underscores the ongoing efforts by Parisian authorities to manage traffic flow and enhance road safety, even as it generates debate among the city’s motorists.
Source: https://fr.news.yahoo.com/sport/paris-nouveau-radar-agace-automobilistes-092017739.html
