France's new Free Flow Maut: This is how paying works without barriers

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Motorway modernization in France: switch to Free Flow-Maut-System

Understand the changes in the toll system

In France, the toll system on the highway is increasingly digitized and modernized. The introduction of the free flow toll system, which now also applies to heavily used routes, has the potential to significantly improve the driving experience. In the future there will be no longer any barriers where drivers have to stop. This could lead to less traffic jams, which would also reduce environmental pollution because vehicles can stay in motion.

First steps of implementation

The new toll system has initially been tested since 2019. The first section on which free flow toll was used was the A4 at Boulay. In the following years, further routes were changed, as an example, the A79 in the Allier department in 2022 and the A14 from Paris towards Normandy, which started operating last month. The complete changeover of the remaining A13 section to the coast is planned for next December.

handling of possible payment difficulties

Although the new technology brings many advantages, it also contains challenges for drivers. If the vehicle detection is recorded on a toll bridge and no automatic payment method is set up, the travelers only have three days to pay the due fee. If this does not happen, a request for payment is sent, often associated with a penalty fee. If this payment request is not fulfilled, a penalty of up to 375 euros can threaten, which can be an unexpected financial burden for many.

importance of the new toll technology for travelers

The changeover to the free flow toll has far-reaching implications for vacationers and commuters. Especially for people who regularly use the French highways, it is important to find out about the new payment modalities at an early stage. In order to avoid stress, travelers can register their vehicle license plate online in advance to obtain information about payments to be stored.

tips for vacationers in France

For tourists who are planning a trip on the French motorways, it is advisable to clarify in advance who runs the respective routes. Various operators are responsible for the users of the Free Flow toll, for example Aliae for the A79 and Sanef for the other free flow motorways. So vacationers can avoid problems and surprises during their trip.

FAZIT : The introduction of the free flow toll system in France is an important step towards a more modern and user-friendly motorway infrastructure. While there are many advantages, drivers and travelers should always be informed and prepared in order to be able to optimally use the new conditions.

- Nag