If ever you have thought that our traffic police officers and the laws they try to uphold are harsh, a quick glance across the pond may change that.

Police in France are a lot harsher than their British peers; individuals found to be driving illegally in their country face an on the spot fine of at least 135 euros, about £104. Not too expensive one might think but if your offence is more serious then up goes the fine, driving 181kph in a 130kph (112mph in a 80mph) zone and you're looking at a fine of 1,500 euros some £1,159.

For those that are daring enough to drive around the country without holding a license are instantly looking at a fine of 3,750 euros the equivalent of £2,898. And finally those caught driving without car or van insurance are looking at a whopping fine of 15,000 euros, a massive £11,592. Those caught while driving under the influence face similar charges as do those that refuse to take a breathalyser or drug test.