The Bayonne prosecutor, Mariel Garrigos, describes road crime as a “mass litigation”. She makes the figures speak: “Within the jurisdiction of the Bayonne court, we recorded 5,672 proceedings last year and 942 people followed a course.” The range of offenses includes excessive speed, driving without a license or insurance, under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. Even road homicides, a qualification included in the penal code since December 2025. A reality which makes the subject “a priority of criminal policy and more broadly of public policy”.
260 euros
The prosecution expresses its concern for “gradation” of the criminal response. Justice weighs it according to the seriousness of the offense and the profile of the perpetrator. A first-time offender who runs a stop sign without causing an accident will more likely be referred to a criminal offense measure, where the awareness training comes as an alternative to punishment. The repeat offender will be prosecuted and judged, the internship will be part of the sentence or will be a condition of probationary suspension. In both cases, it is the responsibility of the offender: 260 euros. And can only be passed once.
We strongly believe in the power of the group to bring about a change in behavior
Two facilitators, a psychologist and a driving instructor trainer will supervise the courses. “We believe a lot in the power of the group to bring about a change in behavior,” says Bernadette Ducorps, New Aquitaine general director of the Road Safety Association.
