Driving in France - Hi viz vests

[KPE]

Hi, I am planning to drive to France soon and came across a few do's and don't on this checklist:

http://www.drive-france.com/checklist/

It says that hi viz vests are necessary otherwise we could receive an on the spot fine. However, I currently have these RAC thermal blankets which aid visibility:

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...

Do you think I could get away with these blankets and not bother with the traditional hi viz vest?

Much appreciated on any thoughts!

[KPE]

illmonkey said:

You can get hi-vis for £1/pop, stop being tight!

Where from please? Poundland?

[KPE]

Strawman said:

I was in France for a week last year and forgot about the requirement, I had one for a car with five in it. I think the chances of being stopped are pretty small.

Well for the couple of quid per vest is probably better than the potential EUR 135 fine. And of course, they can be re-used for any subsequent visits.

[KPE]

CallorFold said:

£1.95 delivered

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hi-Vis-Yellow-High-Viz-V...

Thank you

[KPE]

RicksAlfas said:

Every French hire car I've had has had a vest in the glovebox.
The legal requirement is one for the driver, so hire cars come with one vest.

Need a vest for all the passengers:

Hi Viz Vests

If you breakdown or heaven forbid are involved in an accident you will need to get out of the vehicle and stand at the roadside or on the hard-shoulder if on a motorway. The French authorities are very strict that people stood outside the vehicle on motorways especially are wearing "Hi Visibility" clothing such as a vest that fits over you clothing or a high viz jacket.

That's everyone you the driver and also all of your passengers. So if a family of four are travelling in the car then you should each have a hi viz. Also these need to be carried inside the cabin of the car not the boot so you can put it on before you get out, though in practical terms I presume most will be putting it on as they are getting out. However the police are strict and if they see you stood with the boot up rummaging round trying to find the vests under all your suitcases and beach balls they will very likely issue you with a fine.