“This is a phenomenon. wound which can annoy more than one person,” some will say. Motorists travel loud music, sometimes open windows. In busy areas, probably disturb local residents and passers-by. A practice that, of course, does not create problems on the highway or lightly trafficked roads. But some drivers, to draw attention to themselves or their car, overuse the volume when they are in town. Do they have the right to do so and is this practice controlled? In France, there are strict rules regarding noise and noise pollution related to the vehicle. But not specifically for those who are connected with music.

Discomfort for other users or local residents

Article R318-3 of the Road Traffic Regulations states that ” vehicles must not create noise that could annoy users roads or residents “. It states that “the level of noise produced by motor vehicles moving on a road located in populated areas and where the maximum permitted speed of vehicles does not exceed 50 km/h should not be higher than the established order of the minister responsible for the environment or transport.” The code also states that ” in populated areas, the use of sound signals and sound signaling devices is prohibited, except in cases of immediate danger. This means that the use of music at excessive volume can be sanctioned, especially in urban areas, if it constitutes annoyance to other users roads or for local residents.

Daytime noise, nighttime noise: a fine of 68 euros

In fact, no legal text officially regulates the volume of sound emitted by audio devices. Including speakers that play music. He is at the discretion of the police or gendarmes decide whether the volume is excessive or not. Either in the act or from the video where the car and driver are formally identified. But for the offense to be effectively enforced, it would require case law this disturbance is regular and alarming. Interference with the peace of others is possible. During the day (day noise, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) or at night (night noise, 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.), this practice is reprehensible. a fine of 68 euros (minus 45 euros). She can in some cases it can be increased to 180 or even 450 euros depending on the case. In particular, in case of rejection of the dispute by the police court.

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