Speeding fines for British drivers in the European Union can no longer be enforced following the end of the Brexit transition period.
The UK’s departure from the EU means a directive allowing the cross-border exchange of information in the event of a traffic offence no longer applies.
This also means EU drivers will escape a speeding fine when travelling in the UK.
Figures from the French motoring website Caradisiac show that France sent contravention notices to 444,378 UK drivers in 2019. This puts the UK at the top of the league table for fines issued under automated control (cameras).
The UK finished ahead of Belgium (295,899 fines), Spain (262,012), Germany (249,291) and the Netherlands (206,102).
France stands to lose up to €60 million (£53 million) in unpaid UK motoring fines once travel restrictions are lifted.
Drivers still face on-the-spot fines
Directive 2015/413, nicknamed ‘Cross Border’, followed on from a Directive dating back to 2011. It covers a wide range of motoring offences, including:
- Speeding
- Jumping a red light
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol
- Driving while under the influence of drugs
- Not wearing a helmet (motorcyclists)
- Driving in a prohibited lane
- Using a handheld mobile phone at the wheel
This doesn’t mean British drivers will be able to travel in France with impunity. As reported by The Times, drivers stopped by French police will be ordered to pay an on-the-spot fine.
Anyone caught travelling at 50km/h or more above the speed limit could have their vehicle seized.
Fines range from €135 (£120) to €1,500 (£1,335), depending on the severity of the offence.
France is keen to reach an agreement similar to what’s in place with neighbouring Switzerland. The Times has reported that French officials fear Britain will “drag its heels”, although the prospect of losing revenue from speeding EU drivers could push the issue up the agenda.
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