Paris Peripherique Tips
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| French Term | English Translation |
| Sortie | exit |
| Bouchon | “cork” traffic jam |
| Circulation fluide | free flowing traffic |
| Travaux a …km | road work … km ahead |
| Vitesse reduite sur …km | reduced speed for …kms |
| Rappel | “remember” reminder of speed limit |
The Périphérique is in fact composed of two concentric circles of road guiding traffic in opposite directions to each other. There are “bridges” between these, but not all give access to the opposite direction, so if you’ve missed your exit, its not always easy to rectify. It’s important to pay attention to the signage.
Keep your wits about you, the French are assertive drivers and although they don’t have a reputation for road rage, they are more than willing to flash and beep you if you are in their way, for instance, hogging the fast lane. Whatever the reason may be, don't retaliate. Remember you are a visitor to their country, so keep your cool.
As with any main road in France, the slow lane is the right lane, but unlike other autoroute rules, if you are in the right lane and someone indicates to change into your lane, you must give way to them. This gives priority to those entering the Périphérique. The exception to this rule is if YOU are EXITING the Périphérique, in this case, you have priority, either way, its best to play safe and drive confidently but carefully.
Bicycles and pedestrians are strictly prohibited on the Périphérique.
Paris Peripherique TIP: Motorcyclists that take risks and weave their way haphazardly through the traffic on the Périphérique are referred to as “organ donors” by the Parisians. So, watch out for motorcyclists before changing lanes, check your blind spot.
There are electromagnetic sensors embedded in the road to help detect and relay traffic flow information to the central traffic exchange centre. From here the information is processed and any updates to the electronic signage can be made.
Paris Peripherique TIP: The Périphérique is not without speed cameras, watch your speed.
Check out France autoroute info and tips here.
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