Motorcyclists in France will be forced to wear high visibility clothing from January 2013, following a change in French road traffic law.

An amendment to ‘Le Code de la Route’, the French version of the Highway Code, will make it compulsory for riders of bikes over 125cc to wear a reflective item of clothing. The rule comes into force on 1 January 2013.

The reflective area must be on the upper body and cover at least 150cm2. The requirement will apply to riders and pillions, including foreigners travelling in France. Failure to comply with the new regulation could lead to a fine of €68 (£56).

Ian Mutch for the Motorcycle Action Group told MCN: “We contend that a motorist who is incapable of identifying a normally dressed rider and motorcycle in conditions of good visibility is not fit to hold a driving licence.”

In 2008, a law was passed in France that made it compulsory for all cars in France to carry a warning triangle and high visibility jacket, which must be used in the event of breakdown.