Paris Pushes for SUV Ban Following Cyclist’s Death
The Paris City Council has called on the French government to prohibit SUVs in urban areas, citing safety concerns after a fatal accident involving a cyclist.
- The Paris City Council has adopted a motion requesting the French government to ban SUVs from urban areas, citing their disproportionate danger to vulnerable road users.
- The motion follows the death of 27-year-old cyclist Paul Varry, who was struck and killed by an SUV on a Paris bike lane in October.
- Mayor Anne Hidalgo and her allies argue that SUVs pose significant risks due to their weight and size, which are linked to higher fatality rates in accidents.
- Critics accuse Hidalgo of using the tragedy to advance her broader anti-car policies, which have already faced resistance from some Parisians and local businesses.
- The Council also seeks to ban advertising for SUVs and calls for a national discussion on addressing motorized violence and improving road safety.
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