On the road to vacation: drinking, eating, smoking, wearing flip-flops… what is allowed and forbidden while driving

No ban on drinking, eating and smoking Unsplash – Karsten Würth – Illustration

Extreme heat, long car journeys… Summer can be synonymous with car journeys. Is it then possible to eat, drink or smoke while driving ?

The law does not prohibit eating or drinking while driving, nor even wearing flip-flops, contrary to a widely held belief.

Respect the Highway Code

On the other hand, the police may stop you if you pose a danger, as stated in Article R412-6 of the Highway Code. "The driver must at all times behave prudently and respectfully towards other road users. […] Every driver must constantly be in a condition and position to conveniently and promptly perform all the maneuvers that are his responsibility."

If the officer considers that your driving behavior is inappropriate, he may sanction you. The 2nd class fine can be between 35 and 70 euros, as noted by our colleagues at La Voix du Nord.

Presence of minors

Concerning cigarettes, there is no ban either. However, article L 3511-7-2 of the public health code stipulates that it is not possible to smoke in a vehicle transporting a minor.

This ban applies to all passengers in the car. It is then possible to have a 4th class fine, between 90 euros and 375 euros.

With the heat, it is strongly recommended to hydrate regularly and take breaks to rest.