Brit tourists driving in popular country at risk of £1,200 fine due to ‘no-nonsense law’

Drivers heading to Europe must disable a crucial sat-nav feature or could be caught out with a hefty penalties under a strict driving law.

Since 2012, motorists travelling in France are banned from having a speed camera detector inside their vehicles which is a feature installed on many modern sat-nav devices. 

Although legal in the UK, motorists found using the technology could be issued a staggering motoring fine and even face more extreme penalties. 

The rule will likely catch many unaware this July with many heading to Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games within weeks.

LeaseCar said: “In a bid to promote safer driving, some European countries have introduced strict, no-nonsense laws preventing drivers from using a sat nav with speed camera alerts activated - and that includes when using apps like Google Maps, too. 

“Used correctly, some speed camera detectors help you monitor your speed and tell you to slow down when exceeding the speed limit. 

“However, governments in select European countries argue that sat navs with speed limit warnings enable drivers to get away with speeding. 

“If your GPS system shows camera alerts, you can turn this off in the factory settings. Google Maps has advised that its camera detection feature turns off when you connect to data or WiFi data in countries where alerts are illegal. 

“For cases in which you’re using the built-in sat nav system in your car, it’s advisable to contact the vehicle manufacturer before you set off on your journey.”

According to LeaseCar, travelling with the system activated in France could see drivers hit with a staggering £1,270 (€1,500).

The AA has stressed devices with the technology installed could even be confiscated by officials. 

In some extreme cases, vehicles can even be confiscated which would be a major blow to holidaymakers.

Meanwhile, road users can also be caught out in Germany for breaking the law but the charge is much more affordable.

LeaseCar claims the penalty is more than 20 times cheaper and sits at just £63 (€75).

Leading speed camera provider TomTom has confirmed their devices comply with local legislation. 

This includes adapting the services to suit the area with special rules in place for certain European countries. 

They explained: “TomTom’s service in France is certified to be 100 percent legal. Instead of warning for exact locations of cameras, TomTom warns for Danger Zones around any potential danger, including cameras.”