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Understand the laws concerning blood alcohol levels to ensure you don't go over the limit when driving in France...
A driver is considered to be driving under the influence of alcohol/driving while intoxicated/ driving drunk in France if the blood/alcohol level is equal to or exceeds 0.5 grams per litre (g/l).
- If the blood/alcohol level is between 0.5 g/l and 0.8 g/l the penalty could include a fine, loss of six points or suspension of the licence.
- If the blood/alcohol level is in excess of 0.8g/l the penalty could include two to four years in jail, a fine, the confiscation of the vehicle, the suspension of the licence or the loss of six points
- If the blood/alcohol exceeds the legal limit, and a presence of banned narcotics (drugs) is detected, the penalty could include two years in prison, suspension of the licence and a fine
- If a driver causes an accident while driving drunk, the fine could be dramatically increased
- If a driver causes serious physical harm or commits involuntary manslaughter (a victim dies as a result of the driver's actions), penalties may be a ten-year prison sentence and a fine of up to €150,000
- A driver who refuses to take the breathalyser, may face further penalties.
- More information about alcohol and driving (in French)
- Prévention Routière also have information drink driving