Page 18 - (DK Eyewitness) Back Roads Travel Guide - Germany

16 BACK ROADS GERMANY

Driving in Germany

Driving is one of the best ways to explore Germany.
The road conditions are among the best in the world and a
well-developed network of Autobahns (motorways) and major
roads allows access to almost every corner of the country.
However, it is the scenic drives away from the urban centres,
through Germany’s beautiful landscapes, that provide a unique
experience. To make the most of your trip, it is best to know Above Driving along limestone cliffs,
the basics of driving in Germany before setting off. Altmuhl Valley, Bavaria
Insurance and Seat belts are compulsory in Germany, limits. As a rule, the most severe
Breakdown Cover and there must be a warning triangle fines, including the possible revoking
If you are travelling in your own and a high-visibility jacket in the car, of a driving licence, begin at exceed-
vehicle, make sure that your insur- in case of a breakdown. Also, every ing 30 kph (19 mph) over the speed
ance is valid in Germany, so that in registered vehicle must carry a first- limit. Fines can also be incurred for
the event of an accident any damage aid kit that includes disposable tailgating and parking in prohibited
will be covered. When renting a car, surgical gloves and a thermal blanket. areas. In both cases, your car hire
insurance is usually included in the If you rent a car, make sure that such company will bill you for any ticket
rate. However, you should check the a kit is provided with the car. that is sent to them, along with an
details of the rental company’s policy. administration fee.
Most UK motoring services such as Road Systems Do not drink and drive. The law
the Automobile Association (AA) and Germany is famous for the Autobahn is stringent and penalties high.
Royal Automobile Club (RAC), offer – a well-developed network of toll- The legal limit is 0.5 mg, but if you
insurance for assistance, breakdown free motorways. The prefix “A” on are stopped for another traffic
and recovery in Germany. European a blue sign indicates the Autobahn. offence, the limit drops to 0.3 mg.
breakdown and repatriation cover is Besides the motor ways, there are The police can impose a fine on
also available with the Allgemeiner well-maintained major roads the spot. It is also illegal to use a
Deutscher Automobil Club (ADAC). (Bundesstrasse), which can be mobile phone while driving. This
distinguished by the prefix “B” on also applies if the car is standing but
What to Take a yellow sign. the engine is running. If caught,
In order to drive in Germany, EU drivers will be fined €60. However,
drivers must hold a valid driving Speed Limits and Fines Bluetooth headsets are allowed.
licence and carry the registration There is no specific speed limit for
documents and insurance policy driving on the Autobahn, although Rules of the Road
for the vehicle. Driving licences from many sections of it recommend a Driving is on the right in Germany
America and Australia are recognized speed of 130 kph (81 mph). On major and seat belts must be worn at
in Germany. However, citizens of roads, the speed limit is 100 kph all times by the driver and all
non- European countries should (62 mph), and inside a city and in passengers, front seat and back.
carry an International Driving Permit. built-up areas, it is 50 kph (31 mph). Knowing the general rules of the
Several agencies (www. drivers.com) There are mobile speed cameras and road is important. Be aware that
are authorized to issue the permit, radars (quite often at cons truction overtaking other cars is only
including the auto mobile association sites) and heavy fines may be allowed in the left lane. Under no
of the driver’s home country. imposed if you exceed these speed circumstances should you ever

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