A man named David has become the subject of controversy after being fined €200 for using a loudspeaker to talk on the phone at Nantes train station in France. The incident occurred on a Sunday when he was conversing with his sister, prompting intervention from an SNCF employee who warned of a €150 fine if he did not turn off the loudspeaker. According to David, the penalty escalated to €200 when he failed to settle the fine immediately. Asserting that the fine was imposed in jest, David has since enlisted a lawyer to contest the charge.
Man Fined €200 for Using Loudspeaker at French Train Station
Man Fined €200 for Using Loudspeaker at French Train Station
A 54-year-old man faces a €200 fine for making a loudspeaker call at Nantes station, igniting a debate on noise regulations in public transportation.
SNCF has confirmed the issuance of the fine but has raised questions about the details provided by David. Although there is no specific law against loudspeaker usage in public spaces in France, existing noise control regulations allow for penalties if one disturbs the peace on public transport. Public sentiment reveals a strong disapproval of loudphone calls in shared spaces; a recent YouGov survey found 86% of respondents in Great Britain find loudspeaker calls unacceptable in public areas.
Countries worldwide adopt varying strategies to manage public phone etiquette. UK train operators, such as London North Eastern Railway, commonly provide designated "quiet coaches" where maintaining silence is encouraged. Similarly, Trenitalia offers a quiet area for passengers seeking a noise-free travel experience. Meanwhile, cultural norms in Japan strongly discourage loud phone conversations in public transport settings, while South Korea advises passengers to keep phone conversations discreet. The incident raises important questions about noise regulations and etiquette in public settings, highlighting the ongoing balancing act between personal communication and communal peace.
Countries worldwide adopt varying strategies to manage public phone etiquette. UK train operators, such as London North Eastern Railway, commonly provide designated "quiet coaches" where maintaining silence is encouraged. Similarly, Trenitalia offers a quiet area for passengers seeking a noise-free travel experience. Meanwhile, cultural norms in Japan strongly discourage loud phone conversations in public transport settings, while South Korea advises passengers to keep phone conversations discreet. The incident raises important questions about noise regulations and etiquette in public settings, highlighting the ongoing balancing act between personal communication and communal peace.
