Why Do Some Drivers with French License Plates on French Highways Switch to a Lane Without Checking?

Driving in France can be a delightful experience, with its rich history and picturesque landscapes. Over the years, I have driven and ridden thousands of kilometers on French highways, and one particular observation has intrigued me: why do some drivers with French license plates switch lanes without checking if they are being overtaken?

Common Practice Among French Drivers

Allow me to assure you that this is not a common problem in French driving culture. As a seasoned traveler, my experience has been that French drivers are both skilled and courteous. They generally stay in the left lane until it is safe and clear to overtake, and then move to the right lane upon completion of the maneuver. It is a rare sight to find someone hogging the left lane consistently; more often than not, this is a characteristic associated with UK-registered vehicles.

Of course, it is important to note that rental cars from companies like Hertz or Europcar can sometimes complicate this assumption. These vehicles may be driven by individuals who have learned to drive in other countries, such as the UK, USA, or anywhere else. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see a driver navigating a French highway with a French license plate who may not be a native French driver.

Global Perspective on Bad Driving Habits

The question arises: is this behavior uniquely characteristic of French drivers, or are there bad driving practices that occur in other parts of the world as well? Rest assured, the issue is not limited to France. Poor driving habits, including failure to check mirrors before lane switching, can be observed in many countries, and these drivers are by no means limited to any particular nationality or culture.

While there may be countless stories and videos of reckless or negligent driving, it is essential to remember that such behavior is not confined to France. In fact, I predict that based on the sheer number of chaotic dashcam videos, there are likely more Russian and Indian drivers who engage in these behaviors than French ones. However, this is purely anecdotal and may not reflect the entirety of driving behaviors in these countries.

Conclusion

In essence, the lane switching behavior that you have observed is not specific to French drivers. It is part of a broader issue of poor driving habits that can be seen in virtually any country. Therefore, when driving on French highways, it is essential to remain vigilant and always be aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.