Paris Doesn't Have Any Stop Signs - Here's What They Use Instead

Have you driven in Paris lately? Probably not, but if you detest endless stop signs while driving through big-city blocks, Paris might feel a little less frustrating in comparison, if a little chaotic. It turns out Paris city planners think there are more effective ways to manage traffic than just rudimentary stop signs. In fact, as of 2016, all stop signs within the city limits were removed by the Paris Police Prefecture.  

Along with banning vehicle traffic through the city center and discouraging larger, heavier vehicles within Paris, the removal of stop signs was prompted by the need to improve traffic flow and reduce the number of fines issued to drivers. After all, police stops for traffic violations impede traffic and end up compounding the problem. Studies here in the U.S. have found that stop signs may encourage drivers to ignore the right of way, or to accelerate more rapidly from a stop to make up for lost time. These factors can contribute to increased danger for both pedestrians and other drivers.

To keep traffic moving in a safe manner, Paris deploys a combination of roundabouts, yield signs, and the widely accepted rule of "priority to the right." Stop lights are implemented to manage traffic at major intersections with heavy traffic flow. Because traffic is constantly moving through most Paris streets, this encourages drivers to pay more attention to their surroundings. When drivers stay alert, it improves the safety of all drivers, and pedestrians, too.

Increasingly common here in the U.S., roundabouts maintain a constant flow of traffic at an intersection, where each driver must yield to vehicles within the roundabout. France has more roundabouts than all other countries in the European Union. The most famous roundabout is at the Place Charles de Gaulle (historically known as the Place de l'Étoile), in Paris. 

Yield signs indicate that other traffic is still moving, and the driver must pay close attention before proceeding. The absence of stop signs or traffic lights at other intersections means drivers must allow the vehicle to their right to proceed.

The design of most European cities is in stark contrast to those of the United States, and Paris is no exception. Narrow, often winding roads and busy crossings put safety at the forefront. Vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians must share much smaller spaces than what is typical in U.S. cities. While the absence of stop signs allows everything to move more freely, there are additional factors in place that improve overall safety in much more intimate public spaces.

Smaller spaces and more confined roadways necessitate slower speeds in general. Raised crosswalks and sidewalks enhance pedestrian safety in the presence of vehicles, enhancing the legal right-of-way pedestrians have, and offering a better sense of shared space in such close proximity. If you ever have the opportunity to drive in European cities like Paris, take note of the differences in urban design and traffic flow, as you spot your favorite French cars. Just make sure you're paying attention to all the chaos around you.