Do you think you’re in the clear just because you have your ticket? Think again. In the RATP corridors, certain habits that seem harmless to us are actually offenses punishable by heavy fines… Here is a list of pitfalls to avoid so you don’t get any unpleasant surprises during a ticket inspection…
1 – Obstructing the doors or causing them to open or close irregularly: 150 euros
Blocking the doors to let a friend board or forcing your way through while the audible signal is sounding is not only dangerous, it disrupts the metro’s operations. Be aware that if a conductor witnesses this,they can issue you a fine of 150 euros.
2 – Obstructing boarding or alighting: 150 euros
We’re all familiar with the crowds at Saint-Lazare or Châtelet. But if you try to board the train before passengers have exited, you’re obstructing traffic. If this blocks the flow, inspectors can fine you up to €150. And this also applies to people who obstruct traffic inside the subway car!
3 – Unauthorized use of a reserved seat or space: 150 euros
The blue stickers aren’t just for decoration. Taking a reserved seat (for people with disabilities, pregnant women, or the elderly) when someone who needs it is waiting is a serious offense and a lack of civic responsibility that will cost you… €150.
4 – Entry or presence of a person in a state of obvious intoxication: 150 euros
Did you have a few too many drinks and decide to take the metro home? Be aware thatbeing visibly intoxicated is prohibited and punished very severely! In fact, if your behavior disturbs the peace, the fine can reach €150.
5 – Stains or minor soiling of equipment: 60 euros
Putting your feet on the seat across from you can be tempting, especially after a hard day’s work… But if you dirty the seats, your laziness could cost you dearly: €60 if you run into the inspectors!
6 – An illegible or torn ticket: 50 euros
In the event of an inspection, if you present an illegible or torn ticket, it will be considered invalid. As such, you may simply be fined 50 euros…