All drivers will know it - that bright flash that lets you know that a speed camera has caught you going over the speed limit.
READ ALSO: Radars, fines and points: Understanding France's speeding laws✎
Except, that has not always been the case in France.
The flashes on speed cameras (known as radars) have been progressively turned off since 2019 in response to drivers’ complaints of being momentarily blinded at the wheel.
However - they're now coming back.
Cameras in urban areas in the départements of Yvelines in the greater Paris area, Gard n south-east France and Marne in the north-east will once more flash as they photograph speeding drivers.
After a month’s trial the scheme is due to be rolled out nationally throughout 2026.
READ ALSO: 5 key things to know about France's speed camera network✎
The initial switch-off was in response to driver complaints, but now, organisations including the motorists' group La Ligue de Défense des Conducteurs point out that flashing radars have their uses; they remind drivers of the speed limit and help them form safer driving habits.
They also immediately inform drivers where radars are located.
The return is gradual, however, so in many areas speed cameras will remain discrete - and likely the first drivers will know is when the speeding ticket arrives in the post.
READ ALSO: EXPLAINED: How to appeal against a French speeding ticket✎
Comments