Can French radars flash drivers in both directions?
The country is upgrading how it monitors speeding, including new cameras and unmarked cars
France’s radars are being modernised
Alexandre Prevot/Shutterstock
Speed cameras in France are undergoing a modernisation process, with several being replaced by newer models that use AI to target more offences.
In addition, unmarked radar cars have been authorised in an increasing number of departments. The vehicles are operated by private companies to catch speeding drivers, reducing the need for traditional police officers.
The last decade has also seen a round of major speed camera upgrades, namely in the use of two-way radars.
These are cameras that can measure speeds in both directions on two-way roads, covering drivers on both sides (and not just on the lanes where they are installed).
They are not to be confused with ‘radar double face’, which can take photos in both directions, recording speeds and the numbers on vehicles' back and front plates.
Rise of two-way radars
The first batch of 114 two-way radars was installed between June and September 2015.
Since then, they have continued to replace older radars, with several models now capable of recording speeds in two directions.
They are advanced enough to catch speeding drivers on the far side of the road without the devices being blocked by vehicles on the closer side.
In some situations, radars may also be double face, as well as two-way, and be advanced enough to record other offences.
The rules on the roads have not changed, as speed limits remain the same and drivers must still be warned of the presence of an upcoming radar through a sign.
However, drivers might still be caught unaware if the sign is on the ‘opposite’ side of the road, and they might not see the warning to slow down.
Not all traditional speed cameras can be upgraded to two-way radars, as they require specific placement conditions.
For example, they cannot be obstructed from viewing either side of the road, which means some older radars strategically placed in hard-to-spot locations may have a restricted view and therefore cannot be replaced.
In other cases, authorities opt to replace older models with updated turret cameras that can catch more offences, but still only focus on one side of the road.
Can you tell if a two-way speed camera is installed
Unfortunately, there is not much you can do to find out this information.
As mentioned, signs are installed to warn drivers of the presence of a camera, although they will not state the type of device.
Sharing information on the location of speed cameras – or using radar detectors – is illegal in France.
Two-way cameras look different to traditional models – such as the Mesta 210C and Parifex Falco – and are often more modern and sleek.
While you may notice the model when driving past them, spotting them will also mean you are already in their field of operation. However, you will know that there is a two-way camera installed the next time you drive on the road.
