A TomTom spokesperson said “TomTom will release on July 1st an exceptional map update to report the new speed limits in France. More than 466km of roads are affected. We strongly recommend updating your sat-nav before travelling in France this summer, so you can drive safely and avoid fines.”
A recently law also made it illegal to eat while driving a car in France. Anyone caught eating crisps or sandwiches while at the wheel can now be pulled over and handed an on-the-spot fine of up to 50 pounds.
The law is one a draft of measures aimed at improving the concentration of drivers.
Other new rules now also make it illegal to apply make-up, read a map or listen to ‘excessively loud music’ while at the wheel.
Using headphones or other wireless earpieces are also now banned while driving either a car, a motorbike or a bicycle.
It will also become illegal to smoke in a car when a child aged 12 or under is present. Smoking is also banned outdoors at children’s play areas, including those at motorway rest areas.
Notices have been put up in several languages at motorway service stations to alert foreign visitors to the measures.
Three years ago France also made it compulsory for all drivers to carry alcohol breath test kits in their cars, or face an eight pounds fine.
Other compulsory equipment in a car must also include a warning triangle, a high-visibility safety vest, spare light bulbs, headlamp converters for driving on the right and a GB sticker or number plate with an EU logo.
At the same time France also banned sat-navs capable of detecting speed cameras, and even mobile phones with apps that spot cameras. Offenders face a £1000 fine even if the device is not in use.
