We have just started the new year and as you probably already know, new measures are about to take effect. For the specific case of motorists, there are many changes coming in 2017. If some of them are quite good, others are much less appreciated. In this section, we’ll give you an update on everything that’s going to change in the automotive industry in the new year.
Verbalization
Beginning in January 2017, company vehicle drivers will be held accountable for all violations they commit. Indeed, if they are flashed for speeding or red light violation, they will now be sanctioned by the withdrawal of points. For their part, employers are required to report their employees who engage in such dangerous conduct. If they fail to do so, sanctions may be taken against them. And this is a fine of 1,875 euros.
The repair
Some changes have also been made with respect to garage repairs. From now on, garages will have to offer used spare parts to customers if they request them. This will reduce the cost of repair for motorists and save them money. However, this does not apply to all spare parts. Only the following parts can be offered as used: unglued windows, removable body parts, headlights, certain mechanical and electronic parts.
Tinted windows
Starting January1, 2017, tinted windows are going to be penalized. According to the decree published in on April 13, 2016, the windshield and front windows must now no longer be equipped with over-darkening films. All those concerned have had until the end of December to comply. After this period, penalties are now provided for violators. And this is a4th class fine with 135 euros and a withdrawal of 3 points on the driving license. One of the reasons for this is to allow law enforcement to quickly identify serious violations such as not wearing seat belts.
Ticket without driver interception
Until December 30, 2016, 4 traffic violations could result in a ticket without the driver being stopped. And now, 7 others have been added: not wearing a seatbelt, using a hand-held cell phone, driving, stopping or parking on the hard shoulder, straddling or crossing the continuous lines, not respecting the rules of overtaking, not respecting the “bike lanes” and not wearing a helmet on a motorized two-wheeler.
