France is set to criminalise fatal road accidents caused by drivers under the influence or committing other offences, following the Senate’s approval of a new offence: homicide routier, or ‘road homicide’. The long-awaited legislation now awaits final signature by President Emmanuel Macron.
The introduction of homicide routier marks a major shift in how fatal road incidents are prosecuted in France. Under current law, drivers involved in deadly accidents can only be charged with homicide involontaire—involuntary manslaughter—even when they were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or without a valid licence. Victims’ families and road safety advocates have long argued that this charge fails to reflect the seriousness of such cases.
With the new offence, prosecutors will have a specific legal tool to address fatalities caused by drivers who were also breaking other laws. While the maximum penalties remain the same—seven years in prison for one aggravating factor, and up to ten years for multiple, plus fines of up to €150,000—the symbolic distinction carries strong social and legal weight.
Campaigns by victims’ families drive reform
The move follows years of campaigning by bereaved families. National outrage in 2023 over several high-profile accidents—including the death of a pregnant woman struck by actor Pierre Palmade while driving under the influence—intensified calls for reform.
Among the most vocal advocates has been Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, whose 24-year-old son Antoine was killed by a drunk driver in 2022. “I was told it was manslaughter—an accident,” Alléno told Franceinfo. “People who choose to drink, take drugs, or drive illegally and kill someone must be treated as road criminals.”
Statistics underline urgency of change
According to national data, around 700 young people were killed in road accidents last year, making road deaths the leading cause of mortality for minors in France. Some 84% of those responsible were men. The new legal framework seeks to address both the justice system’s limitations and the underlying behaviours contributing to such tragedies.
Awaiting presidential assent
While the law still requires President Macron’s signature, it is expected to be enacted swiftly, with wide political and public support. Once in force, homicide routier will redefine how France prosecutes the most egregious fatal driving offences, offering a long-awaited acknowledgement of both the crime and its victims.
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