Highway Code

A WoW reminder after a police purge on pedestrians crossing the road

CHANGES TO THE HIGHWAY CODE - give way to pedestrians and cyclists - it is now the law since the 1st of January 

"le code de la route" 

Pedestrians and cyclists in France now have the right of way over cars when crossing the road following changes to the highway code. 

When a pedestrian gives you a clear intention that they wish to cross the road, you MUST give way. 

The new laws are NOT restricted to marked pedestrian crossings. 


A clear intention is defined as either the 

PEDESTRIAN TAKING A STEP FORWARD 

OR GIVING A HAND GESTURE to imply they wish to cross. 


For safety reasons, the new rule doses not apply within 50 metres from a pedestrian crossing. 

A fine of up to €135 and or four points on your license if you fail to stop. 

One other change - cyclists may skip red lights when turning right, but only at crossroads where there is a sign to that effect. 


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MONTPELLIER AIRPORT - TUNISIA 

Montpellier Mediterranean Airport 17 Feb announced the opening of the Montpellier-Djerba route - weekly on Sundays starting May 29. 

With over 100,000 tourists each year, Tunisia is one of the top destinations for French tour operators. 

Montpellier-Marrakech flights are scheduled every Sunday from February 27. 

It is not exactly low cost with flights starting from 220 € for the round trip. 


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New rights for bus and coach passengers in Europe 

Rules have been agreed covering all long-distance scheduled services (250 kilometres or more), whether national or crossborder, which are set to come into force from spring 2013. 

The new law says passengers will be entitled to a full refund, plus 50%, if the operator cannot honour the ticket. 

Passengers who prefer not to go ahead with their trip following a cancelled departure or a two-hour delay will be entitled to a full refund. 

If there is a delay of over 90 minutes according to the timetable, passengers must be given snacks and refreshments. 

If a trip is broken or if there is an accident or a delay requiring passengers to spend the night on the spot, the operator will also be required to offer up to two nights in a hotel at a maximum price of €80. 

The operator can only be exempted from these obligations if the problem is caused by natural disasters or weather conditions that prevent the journey taking place under safe conditions. 

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