A few rules for cyclists in France
At night or in poor visibility (fog, rain), cyclists in France must wear a high visibility waistcoat outside built-up areas.
Children under 12 must wear a helmet when cycling.
Cycle paths and cycle lanes are indicated by two types of signs:
- Round blue signs with a bicycle symbol indicate, as in Germany, an obligation to use a bicycle.
- There are also square blue signs with a bicycle symbol; these are recommended for use but are not compulsory.
A special, self-explanatory signpost marks so-called Voies Vertes, i.e. paths in the countryside reserved for pedestrians and cyclists.
Véloroute? (=cycle route)
This generally refers to a route suitable for cycling, which can run on Voies vertes as well as on quiet public roads. The two terms are often used together, hence the abbreviation 3V for Véloroutes et voies vertes.
Voie verte? (=green paths)
These paths are reserved exclusively for non-motorised vehicles, pedestrians and riders. These connecting paths are closed to motorised traffic. They run, for example, along former railway lines, rivers or canals.
Zone de rencontre? (=meeting zone)
Zone for all road traffic participants. In this zone pedestrians are allowed to use the roadway and have priority over vehicles. Vehicle speed is limited to 20 km/h. All roads are open to cyclists in both directions, unless the police authority decides otherwise. The entrances and exits to and from this zone are announced by signs and the entire zone is laid out in accordance with the speed limit in force.
Aire piétonne? (= pedestrian zone)
Pedestrians have priority. The entrances and exits of this zone are announced by a sign. Cyclists are allowed to ride in pedestrian zones in both directions, unless the authorities decide otherwise, on condition that they keep the walking pace and do not cause any inconvenience to pedestrians.
Telephony ban
While cycling, it is forbidden to use a telephone (whether with headphones, hands-free equipment or directly on the ear). Anyone infringing this ban will be fined up to €135. Listening to music through headphones on a bicycle is also prohibited and is subject to the same fine.