From now on, in Ardèche, those caught holding their smartphone while driving should expect significantly harsher consequences than before. The prefect of the department, Benoît Trévisani, has defended a measure that is already causing debates in France: since June 1st, using a mobile phone while driving can not only result in a fine and points deduction, but also an immediate suspension of the driving license.
For the prefect, the justification is undeniable. The number of deaths on Ardèche’s roads has reached a worrying level. In the first few months of the year alone, 19 people lost their lives on the department’s roads. This number already matches the total from the previous year. From the authorities’ perspective, it is no longer sufficient to rely solely on existing penalties.
Ardèche is part of rural regions in France. Many people depend on cars, with public transportation often playing a secondary role outside major cities. At the same time, winding roads and demanding routes characterize the landscape. A momentary distraction can have serious consequences here.
Until now, drivers using a phone while driving faced a fine of 135 euros as well as a deduction of three points on their license. A license suspension was generally only considered if another offense was simultaneously observed. With the new regulation, Ardèche goes much further. The competent authorities can now directly impose an administrative driving suspension of up to one month.
This decision is part of a broader strategy. Under the motto “Zero tolerance towards road insecurity,” the prefecture has been strengthening its measures against risky behavior on the road for several months. The smartphone is considered one of the main danger factors. Experts have been warning for years that just a few seconds of inattention are enough to create a dangerous situation.
Ardèche is not alone in this approach. Other French departments have introduced similar measures. The authorities in these departments report a decrease in offenses related to phone use while driving. Whether this is a lasting effect remains to be confirmed.
This new regulation is expected to further fuel the debate on road safety and individual freedom. For those responsible in Ardèche, however, another argument prevails: every accident avoided and every life saved, according to them, justifies the strengthened measures. Looking at a screen while driving exposes much more than just a simple fine.
Andreas M. B.