Young driver evades police check

An 18-year-old man in Saint-Chamond, France, refused to stop when police noticed a blue strobe light on his Volkswagen Polo. The incident happened on the Boulevard de Fonsala during a night patrol by police secours.

Police pursue fleeing vehicle

The officers activated their own lights and sirens to stop the car, but the driver initially slowed down before speeding away. This forced the police to pursue and eventually intercept the vehicle.

Driver tests positive for alcohol

The driver was found to have a blood alcohol level of 0.87 mg per liter of exhaled air, which is more than three times the legal limit for someone with a probationary license. This level exceeds the offense threshold of 0.8 g/l of blood.

Driver claims confusion with lights

He explained that he had bought the blue strobe light online to play a joke on his friends and had not realized the police were trying to stop him. He said he mistook their signals for his own.

Potential penalties for alcohol offense

The driver could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 9,000 euros, and the loss of six points on his license. There could also be a suspension or cancellation of his driving privileges.

Additional charges for traffic violations

The driver also faces charges for refusing a police check and using blue lights, which are reserved for emergency vehicles like police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks. These violations could add up to two years in prison, a 15,000 euro fine, and a suspended license.

Legal process begins for young driver

The case is being handled under a penal order, which will determine the exact sanctions the young man will face for his actions.