The prosecutor of Bayonne, Mariel Garrigos, describes road delinquency as a “mass litigation field.” She points to the numbers: “In the area of the Bayonne court, we recorded 5,672 procedures last year and 942 people attended a course.” The range of offenses includes speeding, driving without a license or insurance, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and even road homicides, a qualification introduced in the Penal Code since December 2025. This reality makes the subject “a priority in criminal policy and more broadly in public policy.”
260 euros
The prosecution expresses its concern about the “escalation” of the criminal response. Justice is weighed according to the seriousness of the offense and the perpetrator’s profile. A first-time offender who runs a stop sign without causing an accident is more likely to be directed towards a criminal composition measure, where the awareness session serves as an alternative to the sentence. A repeat offender will be prosecuted and judged, with the course either forming part of the sentence or being a probationary measure. In both cases, the cost falls on the offender: 260 euros. And it can only be attended once.
We strongly believe in the power of group to bring about a change in behavior
Two facilitators, a psychologist, and a driving instructor trainer will supervise the courses. “We strongly believe in the power of the group to bring about a change in behavior,” says Bernadette Ducorps, general director of the Road Safety Association in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
