In order to limit traffic accidents due to blind spots, the French government has made it compulsory to install blind spot marking devices on heavy vehicles (over 3.5 tons) driving in urban areas.
This regulation is regulated by Decree No. 2020-1396 of November 17, 2020, which comes into force on January 1, 2021.
Two-wheeled vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles and scooters are always less visible than a car. The volume is smaller and the vehicle is often placed in the blind spots of vehicles.
Cars or heavy vehicles do not expect two-wheeled vehicles to appear at a crossroads, between lanes or on a curve. In fact, many users are unaware of the impossibility for the driver of heavy vehicles to perceive their presence on both sides.
This situation is the cause of sometimes fatal accidents, for example, when the driver plans to turn right while a cyclist is on the right side of the vehicle.
Blind spots when turning a semi-trailer.
Lateral position to place the blind spot marking.
Rear position to place the blind spot sign.
Dead angles of a vehicle when driving in the direction of travel.
Except for agricultural vehicles and equipment whose maximum speed does not exceed 40 km/hour or for public works, they must be constructed or equipped in such a way that the driver's field of vision, forward, to the right and to the left, is sufficient for safe driving. If this is not the case, the vehicle must be guided by an assistant at the front of the vehicle.
The vehicle shall be provided with one or more indirect vision systems, rear view mirrors, so arranged as to enable the driver to observe from his seat the road to the rear of the vehicle, whatever the load, and whose field of vision visibility does not include a blind spot that could conceal a vehicle about to overtake him.
The controls of the various vehicle devices likely to be used while driving should be readily accessible to the driver while driving.
Failure to comply with these requirements and provisions may result in a fine for 3rd class violations.
Installation of the blind spot marking system for heavy vehicles.
As of January 1, 2021, all heavy vehicles (goods transport vehicles and passenger transport vehicles) must place a signaling device on their vehicle so that it is visible on the sides and rear of the vehicle.
This obligation applies to heavy vehicles with a total authorized laden weight exceeding 3.5 tons. The decree excludes from its scope of application agricultural and forestry vehicles, on the one hand, and winter service vehicles and intervention vehicles of services managing freeways or highways, on the other.
Failure to comply with this obligation shall be punishable by a 4th class fine.
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