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How Does Driving in France Differ from in the US?

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How Does Driving in France Differ from in the US?

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Old Jun 4th, 2019, 07:50 AM
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As I get on in years, it occurs more and more often that I go around the roundabouts a second or sometimes even a third time. However, I have noticed that it isn't always my fault (although it usually is). Sometimes the necessary sign is missing for one reason or another.
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Old Jun 4th, 2019, 08:33 AM
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A former poster used to complain about the "absurd" practice of driving with the headlights on during the day in Europe and also whined about the left and right lane thing. I think they are dead now.
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Old Jun 4th, 2019, 10:11 AM
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<< They respect the left lane. Commercial vehicles are only allowed on the right lane. >>

That's where you'll usually find me, too! ��
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Old Jun 4th, 2019, 10:39 AM
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I almost never use the left lane except when passing a tractor.
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Old Jun 5th, 2019, 02:02 PM
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Are there any places appropriate (or inappropriate) for on the road picnics?
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Old Jun 5th, 2019, 02:08 PM
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Bien Sur! Autoroutes have aires de repose (sp?) with outdoor tables. Regular roads are really busy but take a side road and you'll find many neat picnic places - we always did so but respect property rights.
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Old Jun 5th, 2019, 02:24 PM
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This is not specifically French, but you may encounter "Zones" in France or elsewhere in Europe.
The most common could be the "Zone 30" , typically in residential neighborhoods or historic city centers - with the respective traffic sign for 30kph and the word ZONE.
It means that anywhere beyond that sign, also on crossroads etc., the max speed will be 30kph - without any further sign reminding you.
Until you see the same sign "x-ed" out.
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Old Jun 5th, 2019, 02:27 PM
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The main comment my French friends say about French drivers is that they are so inpatient.
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Old Jun 5th, 2019, 08:25 PM
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What I remember most is being careful on the autoroutes to stay out of the way of fast cars coming up behind with a great degree of impatience. Do NOT drive in the fast lane unless you are passing, and then move over as soon as it is safe!
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