Gendarmes Raise Awareness on Road Lighting Deficiencies, Avoid €45 Fines

With the arrival of shorter days, road visibility has become crucial. To address this issue, local gendarmes organized a safety awareness campaign at a roundabout in Isques on December 15. The initiative aimed to highlight the importance of functioning vehicle lights.
Gendarmes Raise Awareness on Road Lighting Deficiencies
During this operation, ten gendarmes from the Neufchâtel-Hardelot, Le Portel, and Boulogne-sur-Mer brigades engaged with drivers. Over the span of two hours, they stopped 77 vehicles to check for lighting deficiencies.
Key Details of the Operation
- Date of Operation: December 15
- Location: Roundabout in Isques
- Number of Vehicles Checked: 77
- Officers Involved: Ten gendarmes from multiple brigades
The gendarmes emphasized the message: “You have eight days to fix any defective lights.” They reiterated the potential consequences for failing to address lighting issues, including a €45 fine for driving with broken headlights and possible vehicle immobilization if the driver lacks a spare bulb box.
Educational Approach
Rather than focusing on punishment, the gendarmes adopted an educational approach through the “Bien Vu” campaign. This initiative has been ongoing for four years, aiming to improve road safety across the local area.
Commandant Olivier Niellen from the Calais-Boulogne gendarmerie stated that the goal is to promote awareness and prevent accidents. The campaign seeks to ensure drivers recognize the importance of proper vehicle lighting for the safety of all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
As the winter season continues, the gendarmes encourage all vehicle owners to check their lights regularly to avoid fines and enhance road safety.




