DWAYNE J. VIERGUTZ Chief, Army in Europe Document Management
NEIL E. RADER Colonel, USAF Chief, Security Forces
Summary. This pamphlet is a digest of military
regulations, European laws, and practices pertaining to the registration
and operation of motor vehicles in Germany. This pamphlet implements
Air Force Policy Directive 31-1.
Summary of Change. This pamphlet has been revised to—
Update references and incorporate administrative changes.
Update and rewrite information in paragraphs 18 through 24 and 30.
Add new descriptions for certain traffic signs (app B).
Applicability. This pamphlet applies to—
Members of the U.S. Forces and the civilian component (including
Family members of both) assigned or employed in Germany. Members of the
U.S. Forces and the civilian component in Germany on official temporary
duty may apply for and be granted certificates of license to operate
U.S.-Forces-registered privately owned vehicles (POVs). These applicants
must comply with all applicable requirements of this pamphlet.
Nonappropriated-fund agencies and other organizations and their
employees authorized to register non-U.S. Government motor vehicles with
the U.S. Forces.
USAFE personnel in Germany only for policy and procedures governing
licensing of POV drivers in Germany and registering POVs with the
USAREUR Registry of Motor Vehicles. USAFE personnel will refer to Air
Force Instruction 31‑204 for all other aspects of motor vehicle traffic
supervision (for example, suspension, revocation, point assessment).
Non-U.S. personnel assigned to international military headquarters
in Germany who are authorized U.S. Forces certificates of license and
POV registration privileges, as determined by the USAREUR Provost
Marshal.
NOTE: This pamphlet does not apply to personnel
employed by, assigned to, or attached to military missions, military
assistance advisory groups, or U.S. diplomatic consular offices (an
exception may be granted when requested under AE Reg 600-700).
Forms. AE and higher level forms are available through the Army in Europe Publishing System (AEPUBS) at https://aepubs.army.mil.
Suggested Improvements. The proponent of this
pamphlet is the USAREUR G3 (AEAGC-PDP-V, DSN 386-7271). Users may
suggest improvements to this pamphlet by sending DA Form 2028 to the USAREUR G3 (AEAGC-PDP-V), Unit 29230, APO AE 09008-9230.
Distribution. Army units: B (AEPUBS); Air Force units: F (AFI 33-360V1).
a. Certain U.S. Forces procedures for licensing and registration
are more stringent than those required by German law. This pamphlet will
help applicants prepare for the written and road-sign tests that they
must pass before receiving a U.S. Forces certificate of license (AE Form
190-1F). This pamphlet also will help commanders conduct orientations
and refresher and remedial driver-training courses.
b. As regulations change, it may not always be possible to keep this
pamphlet current. Drivers must remember that regulations overrule this
pamphlet for purposes of adverse administrative action affecting
certificates of license.
c. According to AR 190-5/AF1 31-218, the policy and procedures in AE Regulation 190-1/USAFE Instruction 31-202 are controlling in cases of conflict.
a. Under the provisions of the German Supplementary Agreement to
the NATO Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), the U.S. Forces in Germany
may issue a certificate of license (AE Form 190-1F) for privately owned
vehicles (POVs) to U.S. military personnel, civilian component members
(referred to in this pamphlet as civilian employees), and their Family
members in Germany.
(1) All applicants for a U.S. Forces certificate of license must
have a valid drivers license issued by a country (for example, Germany)
or a state or territory of the United States before they can drive in
Germany. Throughout this regulation, this will be referred to as “a
valid country or State license.”
(2) U.S. Forces authorities will ensure that applicants for a
certificate of license have adequate knowledge of German traffic
regulations. Applicants should be familiar with applicable references in
appendix A.
(3) If reasonable doubt exists about a person’s responsibility or
fitness to operate a motor vehicle, U.S. Forces authorities may suspend
or revoke the person’s certificate of license.
b. The U.S. Forces in Germany also may register and license POVs
belonging to U.S. military personnel, civilian employees, and their
Family members. U.S. Forces authorities will cancel the registration of a
POV if the—
(1) Registrant’s certificate of license is revoked, unless there
is a Family member with a valid U.S. Forces certificate of license and
the POV can be put into the Family member’s name.
(2) Vehicle does not meet mechanical standards.
(3) Vehicle is no longer covered by the required liability insurance.
a. The authorization to drive a POV in Germany is a privilege, not a
right. This privilege may be withdrawn if a driver fails to show
responsibility or care for his or her own safety or for the safety of
others while operating a POV.
b. Driving privileges may be withdrawn based on a POV driver’s
acceptance of nonjudicial punishment by a military or civilian court,
traffic-point assessment, other administrative action, or misconduct.
These withdrawals may range from temporary suspensions to indefinite
revocations.
c. Driving privileges may be withdrawn for offenses committed while driving either a POV or a Government vehicle.
a. U.S. military personnel, civilian employees, and Family members must have a U.S. Forces certificate of license issued under AE Regulation 190-1/USAFE Instruction 31-202 to operate a U.S. Forces-registered POV.
b. Army personnel may be issued an OF 346 for a class 3 license (up to
a 15-passenger van) only after they have a valid country or State
license, completed the driver orientation, and passed the test for the
U.S. Forces certificate of license.
c. A U.S. Forces certificate of license (AE Form 190-1F) is valid for 5
years for the vehicle class identified unless the license is suspended
or revoked.
d. To be valid, licenses must be signed in black or blue ink and
carried with a valid identification card and a valid country or State
license.
e. If a U.S. Forces certificate of license is suspended or revoked,
the licensee will not operate any vehicle in Germany (including
German-plated vehicles and rental vehicles) until his or her U.S. Forces
driving privileges are restored.
(1) Class 1. Motorcycle, with or without sidecar. Engine capacity exceeding 250 cubic centimeters (cc).
(2) Class 1a. Motorcycle. Engine capacity between 80 cc and 250 cc, and not more than 20 kilowatts.
(3) Class 1b. Motorcycle. Engine capacity less than 80 cc.
Capable of speeds from 51 kilometers per hour (kph) up to 79 kph (32 to
50 miles per hour (mph)).
(4) Class 2. Vehicles with more than 15 seats (excluding the
driver’s seat). Included are trucks and POVs with trailers weighing more
than 7.5 tons or having more than three axles. (Under German law,
trailer axles not more than 1 meter apart are considered one axle).
(5) Class 3. All other vehicles except for those included in classes 1, 1a, 1b, 2, 4, and 5.
(6) Class 4. Motorcycle. Engine capacity less than 50 cc. Capable of speeds of not more than 50 kph (32 mph).
(7) Class 5. Motorcycle. Engine capacity less than 50 cc. Capable of speeds of not more than 25 kph (16 mph).
b. Applicants must be—
(1) 15 years old for a class 5 license.
(2) 16 years old for a class 1b or 4 license.
(3) 17 years old for a class 3 license.
(4) 18 years old or a class 1 or 1a license.
(5) 21 years old for a class 2 license.
c. Individuals who want to add a new class to their certificate of
license while stationed in Germany must either return to the United
States and have the new class added to their State drivers license or
obtain a German drivers license. The U.S. Forces in Germany cannot issue
a new class to a U.S. Forces certificate of license. Information may be
transferred only from a valid country or State license to a U.S. Forces
certificate of license.
a. U.S. Forces personnel driving POVs or Government vehicles in Germany must obey—
(1) German traffic laws and regulations.
(2) German police officer signals and directions. Failure to obey
police signals and directions may result in arrest and prosecution in
German courts.
(3) Traffic regulations governing the operation of motor vehicles on
U.S. military installations, in Family housing areas, and on other
U.S.-Forces-controlled property as published by commanders and official,
regulatory traffic signs or devices. Appendix A lists applicable Army and Air Force publications.
(4) U.S. Army military police (MP) and U.S. Air Force security forces (SF) traffic signals and directions.
b. Failure to obey traffic laws and regulations as well as traffic signals and directions may result in—
(1) Suspension or revocation of the offender’s certificate of license, withdrawal of vehicle registration privileges, or both.
(2) Citation by the MP, SF, or German police, with possible fines levied by German officials.
10. DOCTRINE OF CONFIDENCE
German courts have adopted the doctrine that drivers of motor vehicles
can rely on one another to obey the law. Drivers must be alert and
prepared to recognize typical errors committed frequently by other
drivers and be ready to compensate for those errors. The doctrine of
confidence does not apply to pedestrians who are frail (old or disabled)
or to children up to 11 years old. Drivers must pay special attention
to these people and try to anticipate their behavior.
11. LEGAL TERMS
German traffic laws require users of public roads to conduct themselves
so that no person is endangered, injured, impeded, or unreasonably
inconvenienced when the inconvenience could have been avoided under the
given circumstances. Drivers are responsible for considering and
anticipating the movements of pedestrians, particularly children, the
elderly, and those who are physically impaired.
a. “Users of public roads” refers to drivers of motor vehicles,
bicyclists, pedestrians, horseback riders, drivers of animal carts, and
owners of domestic animals who allow their animals to stray onto public
roads.
b. “Unavoidable circumstances” are those over which drivers have no
immediate control (for example, unavoidable noise or exhaust fumes
produced by heavy traffic).
c. “Avoidable circumstances” are those over which
the driver has immediate control (for example, squealing tires in
residential areas, racing the motor, honking the horn, playing loud
music).
d. “Endangering” means to place other users of the road in danger by—
(1) Failing to obey traffic signs.
(2) Failing to yield the right-of-way.
(3) Failing to warn approaching traffic that a vehicle is disabled or parked on the highway.
(4) Failing to dim high-beam headlights for oncoming traffic.
(5) Traveling too fast for road conditions.
(6) Passing on hills or curves.
(7) Driving a mechanically unsafe vehicle (for example, a vehicle
with faulty brakes, bald tires, poor steering, weak lights, protruding
bumpers).
(8) Driving when fatigued, ill, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
e. “Injure” is to cause physical harm to other users of the road or
damage property. Splashing mud or water on pedestrians is in this
category.
f. “Impede” means to fail to adjust driving speed to the flow of traffic or blocking other traffic when parked.
g. “Inconvenience” is to make more noise than necessary (for example,
honking the horn, playing loud music, driving with a faulty exhaust
system, racing the engine, letting the engine idle for more than 30
seconds).
a. The driver must ensure parked vehicles have
closed windows and doors, and that the doors, ignition, and steering
wheel (if equipped with a lock) are locked.
b. Failure to secure a POV according to subparagraph a above is illegal. Insurance companies may not honor a claim if the vehicle was unlocked when it was stolen.
c. If personal property is stored in the vehicle, the items should be locked in the trunk.
a. Before Driving. Drivers should obtain and complete AE Form 190-1Y and keep it in their POVs.
b. Immediate Action.
(1) Drivers who are involved in an accident must do the following:
(a) Stay at the scene. Leaving the scene
of an accident (hit and run) is a serious criminal offense under both
German law and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
(b) Turn on emergency flashers and set up a
warning triangle. Place the triangle 100 meters behind the POV; on
autobahns, place the triangle 200 meters behind the POV.
(c) Provide first aid to the injured, but do not move any seriously injured persons. Have someone call for medical help.
(d) Notify the MP or SF of accidents on an installation and both the German police and MP or SF of accidents off an installation.
(e) If no one is injured and damage is minor, move the POV. Do not block traffic after a minor accident.
(f) Exchange information with involved parties (name, address, license number, insurance company and policy number).
(g) Note the time and place of the accident and names and addresses of any witnesses.
(2) Drivers who have a single-car accident and damage property must do the following:
(a) Stay at the scene for a reasonable time in an attempt to contact the property owner.
(b) If the owner cannot be located, leave a note indicating the
driver’s name, address, telephone number, and insurance company.
(c) Report the accident immediately to the
local MP or SF if on or off a U.S. installation. Drivers who do not make
a report could be charged with hit and run. German police need to be
called only if there is more than €1,500 of damage.
(3) The driver should take photographs of the scene if possible.
Photographs can be more reliable than accident reports and are
acceptable in court. If a camera is not available, the driver should
sketch the scene, showing the locations of the vehicles, traffic
signals, and so on.
(4) The U.S. Forces certificate of license has a block that indicates
whether or not an individual is an organ donor. If an individual is
killed in an accident and has “yes” indicated in the organ-donor block,
the telephone number below the block should be called to alert the
Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
c. At the Scene.
(1) Fines. German police may assess an on-the-spot (warning) fine (Verwarnungsgeld). Drivers may refuse to pay, but may risk a more serious fine (Bußgeldbescheid) later. A Verwarnungsgeld does not influence the settlement of an insurance claim. Paying a Bußgeldbescheid later could be used as evidence that you were at fault.
(2) Statement. German police may ask you to make a statement.
If you are the driver or are related to the driver, you are not required
to make a statement. You are required, however, to provide personal
information to establish your identity and sign the appropriate form.
(3) “Helpful People.” Drivers should not sign any document
unless they know exactly what the document says. Drivers should avoid
people who appear at accidents (Unfallhelfer) and try to get drivers to sign powers of attorney, loan applications, and car-rental agreements in the confusion.
d. Reporting.
(1) POV drivers should complete an accident report promptly. POV
drivers should complete forms provided by their insurance companies and
send them in within 1 week after an accident.
(2) Accidents involving property damage must be
reported immediately to both the German police and MP or SF officials
if the accident occurred off an installation or to MP or SF officials if
on an installation. Single-vehicle accidents involving property damage
where the property owner cannot be determined also must be reported
immediately (b(2) above).
14. POLICE JURISDICTION
German police have jurisdiction to enforce traffic regulations. Their
instructions must be followed. Drivers must show their identification,
certificate of license, and vehicle registration when asked by the
German police. German police have the right to arrest U.S. Forces
personnel (and their Family members).
a. In Germany, the following criminal offenses are felonies and
punishable by imprisonment of up to 5 years and a large fine if persons
or property are endangered.
(1) Drunk driving.
(2) Illegal passing.
(3) Reckless driving.
(4) U-turns on autobahns.
(5) Failure to yield the right-of-way.
b. Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it is punishable with imprisonment for up to 3 years and a fine.
(1) Revoking authorities will declare a person ineligible for a
U.S. Forces certificate of license for at least 90 days for any of the
following offenses:
(a) Making a false statement in an attempt to get a U.S. Forces certificate of license.
(b) Operating a POV without being licensed as required by AE Regulation 190-1/USAFE Instruction 31-202.
(2) Revoking authorities may waive the ineligibility period only for (1)(c) above if the individual’s certificate of license has not been expired for more than 1 year. Additional offenses such as (1)(a) and (b)
above committed during the time the individual’s certificate of license
was expired will make the individual ineligible for this waiver. If no
other offense has occurred (for example, individual cited during a gate
inspection has an expired license plate), the individual will be
required to immediately renew the certificate of license.
(3) Revoking authorities will declare a person ineligible for a U.S.
Forces certificate of license for the same applicable period of
suspension or revocation for any of the following:
(a) Committing a violation while unlicensed that would be grounds for suspension or revocation if licensed.
(b) Having a military license (OF 346 or AF Form 2293) suspended or revoked.
(c) Driving a POV after being declared ineligible for a U.S. Forces certificate of license.
(4) Officers in charge of local driver testing stations will declare a
person ineligible for a U.S. Forces certificate of license for the
following periods:
(a) 1 year for cheating while taking a drivers test.
(b) 60 days for failing to pass the written examination after three
attempts. Any failure thereafter will result in an additional 60-day
ineligibility.
(5) Persons declared ineligible will remain
ineligible until they successfully petition the revoking authority for
authorization for a U.S. Forces certificate of license.
b. Suspensions. Suspensions will be discretionary or mandatory and for periods specified in (1) and (2)
below. The period of suspension will begin on the date the U.S. Forces
certificate of license is confiscated. Suspending authorities may
suspend an individual’s U.S. Forces certificate of license for a longer
period (up to 1 year) than prescribed below when appropriate. Examples
of when a longer suspension period is appropriate include when other
measures have failed to improve a driver’s performance, a driver commits
repeated serious moving violations, or an individual repeatedly
violates the installation parking policy. Offenses involving alcohol or
controlled substances will require the licensee to attend and
successfully complete an official alcohol- and drug-abuse prevention
program and remedial driver training.
(1) Discretionary Suspension.
Discretionary suspensions may be assessed for periods not to exceed 1
year. The suspending authority may suspend a licensee’s driving
privilege for the following:
(a) A period of time necessary to—
1. Evaluate a licensee’s physical or mental disability
after a physician has submitted a statement that the person is incapable
of safely operating a POV. A U.S. Forces certificate of license will be
returned only when a physician provides a statement that the person has
recovered.
2. Assess a licensee’s driving skill. When the suspending
authority determines that the person lacks the necessary driving skill
or knowledge, the authority may suspend a U.S. Forces certificate of
license until the licensee has retaken and passed all required tests. If
a person fails to pass the tests for a Government drivers license (OF
346 or AF Form 2293), his or her U.S. Forces certificate of license may
be suspended. (This suspension only applies to Navy and Air Force
personnel.)
3. Investigate incidents involving the licensee. The driving
privileges of involved persons may be suspended until the investigation
is completed and final action is taken. In alcohol-related incidents,
the commander or supervisor must immediately suspend the licensee’s U.S.
Forces certificate of license pending resolution.
4. Review the licensee’s failure to remove or cover
indecent or obscene matter on a POV or to move the POV displaying
indecent or obscene matter from the installation after being asked to do
so (para 33i).
(b) Owning or operating an unregistered or uninsured POV.
1. Displaying a lack of good judgment about safe and prudent operation of a POV.
2. Misconduct that indicates the licensee’s poor qualifications as a driver. Examples are—
a. Abuse of alcohol or controlled substances.
b. Habitual acts of violence.
c. Numerous (three or more) nonmoving violations.
d. Allowing someone to operate a POV without a U.S. Forces
certificate of license or without a U.S. Forces certificate of license
valid for the class of vehicle being driven (except as provided for in AE Reg 190-1/USAFE Inst 31-202, para 4-10).
4. Transferring license plates to another POV without properly registering the plates.
(d) A maximum of 1 year for—
1. Committing two or more offenses in (c) above or (2) below in a 180-day period.
2. Committing a traffic offense outside Germany that would
require suspension or revocation under this publication if committed in
Germany.
3. Using or allowing someone else to use a U.S. Forces certificate of license in an unlawful or fraudulent manner.
4. Fleeing or attempting to flee a police officer after committing a traffic violation.
(2) Mandatory Suspension. Mandatory
suspensions will be assessed for 7 days, 30 days, 90 days, or 180 days
as indicated below. The suspending authority will suspend driving
privileges for—
(a) 7 days for not wearing a seatbelt or
not requiring others to wear seatbelts or restraining devices while
riding in a POV. This also applies to motorcyclists who do not wear or
require their passengers to wear the proper protective clothing while
operating or riding on a motorcycle.
(b) 30 days for—
1. A second offense of (a) above. This also requires a counseling letter.
2. Not paying the license fee within the time specified
after being notified that the initial check was returned for
insufficient funds.
(c) 90 days for—
1. Operating a POV with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of
0.5 milligrams to 0.79 milligrams per 1.0 milliliter (0.05 grams to
0.079 grams per 100 milliliters) of whole blood.
2. Operating a class of vehicle other than the class for which licensed.
3. Owning or operating an unregistered or uninsured POV (two or more offenses).
(d) 180 days for—
1. Having two convictions or receiving two nonjudicial punishments for reckless driving in a 1-year period.
2. Accumulating 12 or more traffic points in a 1-year
period or 18 traffic points in a 2-year period. In these cases, the
offender must complete remedial driver training before his or her U.S.
Forces certificate of license may be returned.
3. Failing to wear a seatbelt or to require passengers to
wear a seatbelt or restraining device while riding in a POV (third and
subsequent offenses).
4. Disposing of a POV in a manner not authorized by this
publication. (This does not apply to renewing POV registration within 30
days after the registration expires.)
(e) Drivers who have not yet reached their 21st birthday if found to
be operating a POV on or off a U.S. military installations in Germany
with any amount of alcohol in their blood up to 0.49 milligrams per 1.0
milliliter (0.049 grams per 100 milliliters) of whole blood. Driving
privileges for these drivers will be suspended for 30 days for a first
offense, 60 days for a second offense, and 90 days for a third offense.
These drivers may also be subject to a monetary fine if caught by
host-nation authorities off the installation.
c. Revocations. Revocations are mandatory, take effect
immediately, and remain in effect indefinitely. The period of revocation
begins on the date the U.S. Forces certificate of license is
confiscated. Offenses requiring mandatory revocation are listed in (1) and (2) below. Petitions for reinstatement are authorized only after 1 year for offenses in (1) below and only after 5 years for offenses in (2) below.
(1) A petition for reinstatement is authorized after 1 year for—
(a) Refusing to take or complete a lawfully requested chemical test under the implied consent provisions.
(b) Operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.8 or more milligrams
per 1.0 milliliter (0.08 or more grams per 100 milliliters) of whole
blood.
(c) Testing positive for a substance listed in the UCMJ, Article 112a, as a result of a chemical test.
(d) Being convicted by a military or civilian court of or receiving nonjudicial punishment for—
1. Manslaughter or negligent homicide resulting from operating a POV.
2. Drunken driving or driving while impaired by a substance described in the UCMJ, Article 112a.
3. Any offense in which a motor vehicle is used if the same
or a closely related offense carries a maximum punishment of confinement
at hard labor for 1 year or more or a punitive discharge under the
UCMJ.
4. Fleeing the scene of an accident that resulted in death or personal injury (hit and run).
5. Committing perjury or making a false affidavit or statement to responsible officials about owning or operating motor vehicles.
6. Obtaining a U.S. Forces certificate of license or helping
someone else get a U.S. Forces certificate of license through
unauthorized means or by using false pretenses to avoid licensing
requirements.
(2) A petition for reinstatement is authorized after 5 years for—
(a) Driving a POV while the license was suspended, revoked, or after the person is declared ineligible.
(b) Committing, for the second time within the last 5-year period, any of the following offenses:
1. Operating a POV with a BAC of 0.05 percent by volume or more of whole blood (as measured in grams per 100 milliliters).
2. Refusing to take a chemical test.
3. Testing positive for a substance described in the UCMJ, Article 112a, as a result of a chemical test.
(3) Individuals who have a record of three alcohol-related traffic
offenses over any period of time will be prohibited from ever receiving a
U.S. Forces certificate of license. No exceptions to this policy are
permitted for individuals who have been found guilty of three
alcohol-related offenses.
(4) The USAREUR Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) will notify the U.S.
State drivers agency of personnel whose driving privileges have been
revoked for 1 year or more following final adjudication of an
intoxicated-driving offense or for refusing to submit to a lawful BAC
test. The notification will be sent to the State in which the person’s
drivers license was issued. This notification will include the basis for
the revocation and the person’s blood-alcohol level.
17. TRAFFIC POINT SYSTEM
The Traffic Point System (AE Reg 190-1/USAFE Inst 31-202, para 2-21)
is designed to penalize erratic drivers (including Family members) who
possess a U.S. Forces certificate of license or military license.
Licenses will be suspended for 180 days if 12 or more traffic points are
assessed against a driver in a 12-month period or 18 traffic points are
assessed in a 24-month period. The applicable Army or Air Force
commander or supervisor will take action to suspend the license. Traffic
points will be assessed against drivers who park POVs where prohibited.
NOTE: The numbers above the road signs in appendix B
are referenced below. These numbers are used in the German traffic code
to identify signs. Traffic tickets for violations committed on German
roads use these numbers to refer to traffic signs related to violations.
(1) Curves. Drivers must slow down
well before entering a curve, maintain slower speed in the curve, and
accelerate at the end of the curve (signs 103 and 105).
If you break down in a curve, make sure to place the warning triangle
as far back from the beginning of the curve as possible so drivers have
time to slow down before entering the curve.
(2) Night Driving.
(a) When driving at night, drivers must drive at speeds that will
allow them to stop safely. Drivers must know the range of their
vehicle’s headlights.
(b) Headlights must be on low beam for oncoming traffic and when
following another vehicle. Headlights should not be left on high beam to
combat the high beams of oncoming traffic. Instead, lights may be
blinked to make the oncoming driver aware that his or her high-beam
headlights are on.
(c) Drivers must be especially alert at dawn and dusk and during bad
weather. Low-beam headlights should be used during these times, not
necessarily to see, but to be seen by approaching vehicles. Under German
law, drivers may not operate vehicles with only the parking lights on.
(3) Fog and Smoke. The weather in central Europe may be foggy
any time of the year, but most commonly in fall and winter months. Fog
and the lack of speed limits on autobahns greatly increase chances for
accidents.
(a) In thick fog, drivers should pull off to the right side of
the road or increase the distance between vehicles while using low-beam
headlights.
(b) Signs are normally posted in areas where patches of ground fog
are common. Drivers should slow their speed considerably in these areas.
(c) In addition to fog, industrial smoke and dust may blow across
roads and highways and reduce visibility. This often occurs where roads
cross railroad tracks.
(4) Rain.In a heavy downpour, drivers
should pull off the road and wait until the rain lets up. Sharp curves,
streetcar tracks, and cobblestone streets are particularly slippery when
wet. Signs 114 and 1052-36 indicate
that the road is dangerous when wet. Additionally, drivers should watch
out for wet leaves; they can make the road slippery when stopping or
making turns.
(5) Snow and Ice.
(a) Unexpected patches of thin ice (sign 113) are common on bridges, underpasses, and roads through forests.
(b) Drivers who drive across unexpected icy
patches should make no sudden change in direction, speed, or braking.
The power of the vehicle’s engine, rather than the foot brake, should be
used to slow the vehicle on icy or snow-packed roads. On downhill,
slippery grades, drivers should use a low gear and avoid accelerating or
braking.
(6) Skidding. To recover from a skid,
the driver should steer in the direction the rear of the vehicle is
skidding and pump the brakes lightly. To avoid skidding, drivers should
drive slowly, avoid sudden acceleration or braking, and brake lightly to
slow down or stop.
(7) Mountain Roads. Before driving in the mountains, drivers
should check the brakes. Normally, traffic signs showing the degree of
downgrade are posted (sign 108).
Drivers should shift to a low gear before driving downhill. Changing
gears while driving downhill may cause the driver to lose control of the
vehicle. The emergency brake is important as an additional means of
stopping.
(8) Landslides. In mountainous areas, landslides are an
ever-present hazard, especially during the spring thaw and after long
periods of rainfall. Signs are posted to warn drivers where landslides
have occurred or are expected (sign 115).
(9) Increased Hazards During Tourist Season. The period from
May through September is the tourist season in Europe. During this time,
extra caution, alertness, and patience are required. Autobahn travel is
extremely difficult during the start of school vacations, which vary
among the German states. Persons planning a trip during the summer
should check with a German automobile club to determine when periods of
heavy traffic are expected.
b. Converting Kph to Mph. Speed limits in
Europe (except for the United Kingdom) are expressed in kph. U.S. Forces
drivers must be able to convert kph to mph, especially when driving a
vehicle with a speedometer gauged in miles. A quick conversion formula
from kilometers to miles is to multiply the kilometers by 6 and drop the
last digit of the result (for example, 30 kilometers x 6 = 180 = 18
miles).
c. Types of Speed Limits. Germany has two types of speed limits:
(1) Posted Limits. Signs 274 and 274.1 indicate the maximum speed allowed; sign 275 indicates the minimum speed allowed.
(2) Unposted Limits. These are speed limits that apply to certain types of vehicles or on certain types of roads (d through f below).
d. Cities, Towns, and Villages. If no higher
or lower speed is posted, the speed limit within city limits is 50 kph
(31 mph) for all vehicles, except for vehicles with a lower speed
limitation (for example, Mofas), which are limited to a top speed of 25 kph.
(1) The city boundaries in which this unposted limit applies are
indicated by a sign bearing the name of the city, town, or village (sign 310).
(2) After sign 310, drivers
must not exceed 50 kph (31 mph) until the speed limit is lifted by a
higher posted limit or a sign indicating the driver is leaving the city
boundaries (sign 311 or 311-40).
(3) All cities also have 30 kph (18 mph) zones in residential and business districts (sign 274.1).
(4) The speed limit on all U.S. Forces property is 30 kph (18 mph) unless otherwise posted.
e. Roads Outside City Limits. For vehicles other than those in subparagraph f
below, German traffic regulations establish a permanent speed limit of
100 kph (62 mph) on roads outside city limits unless otherwise posted.
Exceptions are as follows:
(1) Autobahns (sign 330) inside cities. While driving on autobahns through cities, autobahn rules still apply.
(2) Contrary to popular belief, many autobahns have speed limits.
Where no limit exists, the recommended speed limit for single vehicles
with up to 3.5 tons of authorized loaded weight is 130 kph. This
recommended speed limit should be observed even under the best road,
traffic, and weather conditions. In addition, drivers must consider
their driving experience, the speed rating of their vehicle’s tires, and
the vehicle load. Drivers who exceed 130 kph will be held liable if
they have an accident.
(3) Multilane roads having at least two lanes in each direction that
are divided by guard rails, median strips, or other construction.
(4) Unposted speed limits on the autobahn or comparable, multilane roads for certain vehicles are as follows:
(a) 60 kph (36 mph) for motorcycles with trailers, construction
machines, tractors with trailers, and buses with passengers for whom
seats are not available.
(b) 80 kph (50 mph) for vehicles above 3.5 tons of authorized loaded
weight, except passenger cars, for passenger cars with trailers, trucks
with trailers, tractors with trailers, mobile homes with trailers,
buses, and buses with trailers.
(c) 100 kph (60 mph) for buses with a “100” decal.
f. Speed Limits for Buses, Trucks, Cars With Trailers, and Motorcycles With Trailers. Unless
a lower speed is posted, the speed limit on all roads outside city
limits (except autobahns and comparable multilane roads) is as follows:
(1) 60 kph (36 mph) for single trucks above 7.5 tons of authorized
loaded weight, all vehicles with trailers, and trucks above 3.5 tons of
authorized loaded weight with trailers and buses with passengers for
whom seats are not available.
(2) 80 kph (50 mph) for vehicles with authorized loaded weight
between 3.5 and 7.5 tons, except passenger cars, vehicles with trailers
up to 3.5 tons authorized loaded weight, and buses with or without
trailers.
(3) 100 kph (62 mph) for passenger cars and other vehicles up to 3.5 tons of authorized loaded weight.
g. Recommended Speed Indicators.Sign 380 provides
a recommended maximum speed, weather and road conditions permitting.
Recommended speeds are intended to create a smooth flow of traffic. In
cities, recommended speeds also may be indicated by traffic signals
showing figures (for example, “60” for 60 kph) on the light.
h. Minimum Speed Limits. Autobahns (sign 330) and roads reserved for motor vehicles (sign 331)
have a minimum speed limit of 60 kph (37 mph). These minimum speed
limits must be obeyed except when road, traffic, visibility, or weather
conditions force drivers to proceed more slowly.
(1) Except for certain types of military vehicles, vehicles that
cannot maintain the minimum speed are not allowed on these roads.
(2) Mandatory minimum speeds are posted on some roads. Vehicles
unable to maintain the minimum speed are not allowed on roads where sign 275 appears.
(3) Sign 279 shows the end of a minimum speed zone.
i. Maximum Speed Limits. To use an autobahn
or comparable multilane road, one must have a motor vehicle which is
able to exceed 60 kph (36 mph). (This exclude bicycles, animal-drawn
wagons, and motor vehicles limited to a top speed of 25 kph like
tractor-pulled farm vehicles or Mofas from using such roads.)
Regardless of the posted or unposted maximum speed limit, the driver
must use discretion in choosing the safest speed. The law requires the
driver to adjust the speed to meet road, traffic, and weather conditions
and to consider the type of vehicle and load. There are signs used in
conjunction with speed-limit signs that must be obeyed only under
certain conditions. (For example, bei Nässe (sign 1052-36) requires the speed limit noted must be obeyed only when the road is wet.)
j. Dangers of High Speed. Drivers should
never drive faster than is reasonable considering road, traffic,
visibility, and weather conditions. When the speed is doubled, the force
of a collision is quadrupled (for example, the force of impact at 40
mph is 4 times greater than when a vehicle is going 20 mph). There are
four basic points to remember about high speed:
(1) Greater distance is needed to stop.
(2) Rounding a curve or changing direction is harder.
a. “Legal traffic” refers to motorized vehicles,
bicycles, and animal-drawn vehicles. Pedestrians and human-drawn wagons
are not legal traffic.
b.When traffic signs are absent, vehicles coming
from the right have the right-of-way at intersections, junctions, and
traffic circles. This rule applies to motor vehicles, bicycles, and
animal-drawn wagons. Excluding the exceptions in subparagraph c
below, the right-before-left rule applies at all intersections
regardless of the width of the street or the angle of the intersection.
(1) On entrance ramps to autobahns and express roads.
(2) When a vehicle enters a public road from
private property, a private road, or a parking space. In these cases,
traffic on the public road has priority.
(3) To vehicles coming from pedestrian zones (signs 239 and 242) or from a pedestrian priority zone (sign 325) onto through roads. Drivers exiting such areas must yield to all traffic, including pedestrians and bicycles.
(4) To vehicles coming from field or forest paths to secondary roads or federal highways.
(5) To vehicles coming from roads where the curbstone continues.
d. The yield right-of-way sign (sign 205) indicates that a priority road (a road on which drivers have the right-of-way) is ahead.
e. The priority road sign (sign 306) is posted at the beginning of a priority road and again at each intersection or junction. Outside city limits, sign 306 also prohibits parking on the road.
f. Signs 306 and 301 inform drivers that they have the right-of-way at the next intersection or junction. Outside city limits, signs 306 and 301 normally are posted 150 to 250 meters before an intersection or junction. Inside city limits, signs 306 and 301 are posted at intersections and junctions.
g. In some cases priority roads go left or right
instead of straight ahead. When the priority road turns, this will be
indicated by sign 306 and a directional sign showing the priority road in bold (for example, sign 306 with 1002-12).
(1) Sign 205 with 1002-21
requires the driver to yield to traffic following the turning road. The
driver must also yield to traffic leaving the priority road when the
vehicle is coming from the right.
(2) Sign 306 with 1002-12 gives the driver the right-of-way when the driver follows or leaves the turning road.
(3) Drivers who leave the priority road have the right-of-way over drivers who have yield signs.
(4) Drivers who stay on the priority road must use their turn signal when the priority roads turns.
h. At intersections, drivers should yield to streetcars coming from the left and not insist on the right-of-way.
i. Streetcars have priority over other traffic when tracks go through a traffic circle and sign 101 with a supplemental sign or sign 205 is posted with a silhouette of a streetcar and the words Straßenbahn or Straßenbahn Vorfahrt.
j. Buses pulling into traffic from marked bus stops have the
right-of-way. Bus drivers indicate their intention to enter the flow of
traffic with their turn signals.
k. Vehicles in a traffic circle do not have the
right-of-way over vehicles entering the traffic circle unless traffic
signs at the entrance of the traffic circle indicate otherwise.
l. Funeral processions have the right-of-way over other traffic.
m. A driver must never insist on the right-of-way. Safety takes priority in all traffic situations.
n. Emergency vehicles (ambulances, police cars,
fire trucks, and other vehicles identifiable by their flashing blue
lights and multitone warning signals) have special right-of-way
privileges. Drivers must pull over to the right and stop when emergency
vehicles approach. When emergency vehicles approach an autobahn traffic
jam (Stau), drivers are required to move their vehicles to the
extreme right or left, depending on the lane occupied, to permit the
emergency vehicle to pass through the center of the congestion. On
three-lane autobahns, clearance must be made between left and center
lanes.
o. Drivers are required by law—
(1) To keep their vehicle at a safe distance behind the vehicle in front to avoid hitting it if it should stop.
(2) Not to make sudden stops and endanger traffic to the rear except in an emergency.
p. German traffic authorities recommend one-half the
speedometer reading in meters as a safe distance for following vehicles
(for example, at 60 kph, the recommended distance between vehicles is 30
meters). Greater distances should be used according to current road
conditions. Another method for estimating a safe following distance from
the vehicle in front is the “3-second method.” Note a spot on the road
(for example, a road post). When the vehicle in front passes that spot,
begin counting (one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three).
If you pass the spot before you finish counting to three, you are
following too closely. In bad weather, 4 or 5 seconds are recommended.
Road conditions and driving speed always must be considered in choosing a
safe following distance.
(1) A general rule of driving on multilane roads is that drivers
must drive on the right side of the road except when passing other
vehicles. This generally applies outside of built-up areas. Inside
built-up areas on multilane roads except for autobahns, vehicles with up
to 3.5 tons of authorized loaded weight have a free choice of lane. On
roads with only one lane in each direction, vehicles must go as far
right as possible when being passed, especially when there is oncoming
traffic, at upgrades, on curves, or when the visibility is low. Subparagraph b(4) below explains exceptions to this rule.
(2) When approaching an intersection with
directional arrows painted on the pavement, the driver will enter the
appropriate lane and follow the direction of the arrow.
(a) Watch for traffic to the rear. German police have cited
drivers for “failing to clear traffic from the rear” when changing lanes
to execute a turn. Drivers making a left turn must ensure they check
for rear traffic at least twice. Because of the mirror blind spot,
drivers should never rely on the rearview mirror alone. Just before
making a left turn, drivers must look over their left shoulder to ensure
that no vehicle is in the process of passing.
(b) Put on the left-turn signal well before turning.
(c) Guide the vehicle toward the left center of the road (all the way to the left on one-way streets).
(d) Wait for a break in oncoming traffic
before turning. Traffic approaching from the opposite direction has the
right-of-way. Streetcars also have to wait for a break in oncoming
traffic except where otherwise specified. It is illegal, however, for
drivers to block a streetcar while waiting for oncoming traffic to pass
before turning. Drivers must move on to the next block or to some point
where the turn can be made without obstructing the streetcar.
(b) Put on the right-turn signal well before turning.
(c) Move to the right side of the road and remain in the right lane while turning.
(d) Watch for bicyclists and pedestrians on
the right (particularly those approaching from behind) and let them
pass before turning.
(e) Avoid going into the left lane when turning.
(5) Drivers must approach pedestrian
crosswalks carefully and be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary.
Crosswalks are marked by white lines (zebra stripes) (sign 293) on the road and indicated by sign 134 or 350. The following rules apply:
(a) Pedestrians on or waiting to use a crosswalk have the
right-of-way. At divided crosswalks, drivers must stop for pedestrians
on their side of the road.
(b) Drivers must not pass vehicles at crosswalks, even if no pedestrians are on or at the crosswalk.
(c) Drivers must be especially alert for
physically impaired pedestrians. In Germany, these persons may be
identified by a yellow armband worn on the left arm, a white cane, or
both. The armband is about 3 inches wide and has three dots forming a
triangle. Drivers should consider physically impaired pedestrians at all
times and not just at marked pedestrian crosswalks.
(1) Passing vehicles is one of the most dangerous maneuvers in driving. Passing is not permitted—
(a) When there is a solid white center line (sign 295)
on the road. The vehicle’s wheels should never touch solid white center
lines. These lines appear on hills or curved roads where it is
dangerous to pass.
(b) Where sign 276 is posted. Watch for this sign as it may be obscured when passing other vehicles.
(a) When there is a broken white center line (sign 340). This line may be crossed to turn left or to pass when other traffic is not endangered.
(b) When the driver’s lane has a broken white line next to a solid white center line (sign 296).
(3) Driving faster than the posted speed limit while passing is not allowed.
(4) Passing on the right is prohibited except in the following situations:
(a) Streetcars normally must be passed
on the right. When the space between a streetcar and the curb on the
right is too narrow, streetcars may be passed on the left only if
oncoming traffic is not endangered. On one-way streets, streetcars may
be passed on either the right or left.
(b) On an autobahn or other multilane
highway outside city limits when the traffic in the left lane is not
exceeding 60 kph it may be passed by traffic in the right lane. The
right-lane traffic may not exceed 80 kph when passing.
(c) When traffic is stopped (for example, at a traffic light),
riders of bicycles and two-wheeled vehicles that use insurance plates
may pass slowly on the right. Before turning right, drivers must make
sure that no two-wheeled vehicles are to their right.
(5) When passing another vehicle, drivers must—
(a) Make sure that passing is permitted.
(b) Drivers must not pass vehicles at crosswalks, even if no pedestrians are on or at the crosswalk.
(d) Return to the right lane as soon as possible without impeding the vehicle being passed.
(6) German law prohibits drivers from passing buses that are moving with their warning lights on.
(a) When a bus stops, drivers may pass it at a walking speed (5
kph). This means that the speedometer does not move even though the
vehicle is moving. On two-lane roads, oncoming drivers must take their
foot off the gas pedal and proceed at a walking speed when passing buses
with warning lights on that are stopped on the opposite side of the
road. People, especially children, may run across the street to catch
the bus without watching for traffic. Drivers who move too fast while
passing a bus with its warning lights on may be fined, assessed 1 to 3
points (para 17), and possibly lose their driving privileges for 1 month.
(b) Drivers approaching or following buses
that have stopped for passengers to get on or off on property under the
control of U.S. Forces (for example, housing areas) must always stop.
They may proceed only after the bus has begun to move.
(7) Driving side by side is allowed only
where traffic is controlled by traffic lights or when traffic becomes so
dense that lines of vehicles have formed in lanes heading in one
direction. In the latter case, vehicles in the right lane may drive
faster than those in the left lane.
(8) Drivers must be especially careful when passing during twilight; they must be alert for oncoming vehicles without lights.
(9) German drivers often use their left-turn
signal or flash their headlights as a sign of their desire to pass.
German law prohibits this practice within city limits, but it is still
done. If a driver is in the passing lane and sees someone from behind
wanting to pass, the driver should move to the right lane as soon as it
is safe to do so.
(10) When being passed by another vehicle,
drivers must allow the passing vehicle plenty of room to pass and return
to the right lane, even if this requires slowing down. Speeding up to
prevent being passed is illegal.
(11) Slow vehicles that cannot be passed
because of the traffic situation should pull over to the right at a
suitable place (for example, a wide shoulder) to allow faster traffic to
pass.
(12) When three lanes are present, drivers may use the center lane to pass slower traffic in the right lane.
c. Traffic Lane. German traffic laws define a traffic lane as
that part of the road required for unobstructed vehicle traffic.
According to German traffic regulations—
(1) Traffic should remain in the right lane of two lanes going the
same direction except when passing. This rule applies to autobahns, in-
and outside of cities, and comparable multilane roads outside built-up
areas. Inside built-up areas (except for autobahns), this applies to
vehicles with 3.5 tons and above of authorized loaded weight.
(2) Drivers may disregard the requirement to keep to the right in traffic-light-controlled and dense-traffic situations in b(7) above.
(3) Drivers of passenger cars and trucks with a total weight of up to
3.5 tons may drive in any lane of roads having two or more lanes going
the same direction within city limits.
(4) Changing lanes is permitted only if other
traffic is not endangered. Drivers must indicate every lane change with
directional signals.
(5) If one lane of traffic on a road with two or more lanes in the
same direction is blocked or otherwise discontinued, each vehicle in the
continuing lane must allow one vehicle to merge from the discontinued
lane (zipper technique).
(6) Violating the proper use of traffic lanes is grounds for administrative fines.
a. Autobahns are indicated by sign 330.
Vehicles not capable of maintaining a speed of 60 kph (37 mph) are not
allowed on the autobahn. The recommended maximum speed limit on the
autobahns is 130 kph. Walking is not permitted along the autobahn.
b. Autobahns may be entered only at officially designated points marked by sign 330 or 430.
When entering an autobahn, drivers must yield the right-of-way to
vehicles on the autobahn. Entering an autobahn is extremely dangerous
because of the high-speed traffic. Using the outer-right merging lane,
drivers must be sure the road is clear before accelerating and entering.
c. A driver may leave an autobahn only at authorized points marked by sign 333-20.
d. The right lane of autobahns is for cruising. The
left lane should be used only for passing, except in special situations
(for example, traffic jams, accidents). It is legal to remain in the
left lane if waiting for the vehicle ahead to finish passing.
e. Vehicles using exit lanes at autobahn intersections may drive
faster than vehicles in the lane to their left after reaching the broken
white lines that designate the exit lanes have begun (significantly
wider traffic lane marking shortly before restricted area).
f. Autobahns have dividing strips in the center with guardrails.
Crossing dividing strips is illegal unless directed by German police.
When approaching or going through repair or construction sites, drivers
must watch for sign 276, which prohibits passing in these areas.
g. Emergency telephones are located at 2-kilometer
intervals along autobahns. Arrows on roadside reflector posts indicate
the direction to the nearest one. These telephones are connected by
direct line to the office of the highway superintendent (Straßenmeister)
where a switchboard operator is always on duty. Although most of the
operators speak only German, lifting the receiver indicates the exact
location of the caller. If the caller cannot be understood, the operator
will ask the German police to come to the caller’s aid.
h. Autobahns have hard-surface shoulders. Vehicles may be driven on
these shoulders only if mechanical trouble occurs. If a vehicle breaks
down, the driver is required to move the vehicle onto the shoulder as
far from the traffic lanes as possible and take immediate action to warn
approaching drivers by turning on flashing lights and setting out a
warning triangle (para 27). It is
recommended that all passengers get out on the right side of the vehicle
and wait behind the barrier, not on the shoulder or in the vehicle.
(2) Stop or park. (Authorized parking areas are marked by sign 314.)
(3) Run out of gas. Drivers may be fined for stopping if their vehicles run out of gas.
(4) Drive in the left lane to prevent vehicles from passing.
(5) Tailgate and flash headlights in an effort to force other drivers to the right lane.
(6) Get out of POVs when stuck in a traffic jam.
j. Buses and trucks with an authorized loaded weight of 3.5 tons or more
must stay at least 50 meters behind the vehicle in front of them when
driving at speeds of more than 50 kph.
a. Railroad crossings are indicated by traffic signs 150, 151, 153, 156, 159, 162, and 201. Traffic sign 201
and a flashing red light indicate that a train is coming and vehicles
must stop. Vehicles may proceed when the flashing red light goes out.
b. Crossing railway tracks is forbidden when—
(1) A train is approaching.
(2) The expected approach of a train is indicated by a flashing light or other visible or audible signal.
(3) Crossing-gates are closed or in motion.
(4) An attendant waves a red-and-white flag.
c. Every railroad crossing must be approached with caution, especially unguarded crossings (signs 151 and 156). Drivers should proceed carefully, listen for approaching trains, and look in both directions before crossing railroad tracks.
d. Drivers must be especially alert when there are two or more tracks
at railroad crossings. Although a train on one track has passed, another
may be coming from the opposite direction on another track.
e. Drivers should not change gears when crossing tracks because this
increases the chance of stalling. To avoid being stranded on the tracks,
drivers should wait until the vehicle ahead has crossed and left enough
room to clear the tracks.
f. Class 2 vehicles and vehicles with trailers are required by law to
stop immediately after passing the single-stripe signpost (sign 162)
when the railroad crossing is closed or a train is approaching. This
requirement enables faster moving vehicles to pass slower vehicles
before reaching the crossing.
g. When a vehicle is stopped at a crossing at night, the driver must use parking lights.
h. When a 30-second or longer stop is anticipated, the driver should turn off the ignition.
a. Vehicles may stop only on the right side of
the road in the direction of the flow of traffic. If streetcar tracks
are on the right side of the street, it is legal to stop on the left
side, unless stopping is prohibited by traffic signs. Stopping or
parking on either side of one-way streets is usually permitted.
b. Drivers must wait for streetcars that have
stopped to allow passengers to get on and off, except at pedestrian
islands. Drivers may proceed after the streetcar doors are closed and
the driver’s side of the road is clear of pedestrians. Drivers do not
have to wait until the streetcar begins to move forward.
c. A driver who reaches a parking space first has priority, even if he or she passes the space to back into it.
d. Under German law, a vehicle is considered parked when the driver leaves the vehicle or it is stopped for longer than 3 minutes.
e. A vehicle is considered to be parked illegally if it is parked—
(1) Within 5 meters of either side of an intersection.
(2) In front of driveway entrances or exits, or on the opposite side
of the street if the road is too narrow to allow vehicles to enter or
exit the driveway.
(3) In a way that obstructs the use of marked parking places.
(4) Within 15 meters of either side of a bus or streetcar stop marked by sign 224.
(5) Within 50 meters of either side of a railroad crossing sign (sign 201) outside a built-up area, or 5 meters inside a built-up area.
(10) Within 10 meters in front of yield signs (sign 206), railroad crossing signs (sign 201), and traffic lights if parking would obstruct the view of the sign or signal.
(11) Anywhere there is a no-stopping sign.
g. Blue parking discs (sign 291) are required in areas where traffic sign 290 is posted. These parking permits may be obtained from local civil authorities and must be visible from outside the vehicle.
a. When a potentially dangerous situation
exists, drivers must alert other road users to the danger. To do this,
drivers may flash their headlights and use their horn and turn signals.
b. Drivers must take care to use warning signals only in a way that
does not confuse other drivers (for example, by not leaving a turn
signal on without making a turn). Drivers also must be careful when
using car horns not to startle domestic animals (for example, horses
pulling wagons).
c. Outside city limits, a short blast of the horn or flashing headlights indicates the intention to pass.
d. Inside city limits, using the horn or flashing headlights must not be used to signal the intention to pass.
e. Drivers may flash their headlights and blow their horn to warn inattentive pedestrians.
f. The turn signal is used for all turns and to warn other traffic of the driver’s intention to—
(1) Pull away from a curb or parked position.
(2) Change lanes.
(3) Leave a traffic circle.
(4) Pass.
(5) Move the vehicle in any way that may interfere with other traffic (for example, going around obstacles in the road).
g. Using the turn signal does not relieve the driver of the responsibility of safely operating the vehicle.
h. If the vehicle’s turn signals are not functional, the driver must
go immediately to an authorized shop for repair. The driver will use
hand signals en route to the repair shop. Indicating a turn by hand
signal is done with the left arm—
(1) Fully extended for a left turn.
(2) Turned up at a 90-degree angle at the elbow for a right turn.
(3) Pointed down at a 90-degree angle at the elbow for a stop.
a. Seatbelts are installed in all Government sedans, station
wagons, pickup trucks, and ambulances. The driver and passengers who are
transported in a Government vehicle equipped with seatbelts are
required to fasten their seatbelts. The driver and passengers will keep
their seatbelts fastened while the vehicle is in motion. Senior military
passengers and drivers will ensure that passengers keep their seatbelts
fastened.
b. POVs, regardless of age, must have serviceable seatbelts installed
for the driver and each forward-facing passenger. German law requires
that seatbelts for all occupants be fastened while the vehicle is
moving. A shoulder belt must cross the shoulder and chest, not the face
or neck. A lap belt should be low over the hips, snug, and not twisted.
c. German law states that children under 12 years
old may sit in the front seat of POVs only when children in that age
group are already occupying the rear seats or the vehicle does not have a
rear seat.
(1) If children sit in the front seat, they must be secured with
officially approved safety equipment suitable for them and permitted for
use in front seats (equipment approved by the U.S. Department of
Transportation (DOT) or approved in Germany under United Nations
Economic Commission for Europe Regulation 44-03).
(2) Children seated in the rear seat that are
shorter than 150 centimeters (4 feet, 11 inches) or who are 12 years old
or younger must be secured by the proper restraint equipment suitable
for the child.
a. The primary cause of fatal traffic accidents
is alcohol. Apprehension by the German police can result in loss of
driving privileges, fines, and possibly imprisonment, depending on the
seriousness of the offense and the level of impairment. In Germany,
drunk driving is a felony punishable with imprisonment of up to 5 years
and a large fine if persons or property are endangered.
b. Implied-consent provisions are as follows:
(1) Persons holding a U.S. Forces certificate of license and
operating a POV are assumed to have given their consent to chemical
tests for alcohol or other drug content of the blood, breath, or urine
by U.S. authorities. The tests may be administered when drivers are
lawfully stopped, apprehended, or cited for any offense allegedly
committed while driving or in physical control of a motor vehicle while
under the influence of intoxicants.
(2) If civil authorities administer a chemical test, the U.S. Forces
also may administer a test. If multiple tests are made, the results of
the test made closest to the time of the incident normally will be used
to determine administrative action, unless the alcohol or drug content
of the blood is rising because of the person’s consumption before
apprehension. In this case, the test that shows the highest content will
be used.
(3) Administration of tests for alcohol or other drug content of the
driver’s blood, breath, and urine may be delayed following a POV
accident or offense. When a test is administered, regardless of the
delay, the results can be used against the driver to suspend or revoke
the driver’s certificate of license. For this reason, the driver should
not drink alcohol for at least 6 hours after an accident. This
precaution will protect the driver against a possible charge of driving
while intoxicated.
(4) Drivers who refuse to submit to or complete
chemical tests will have their certificate of license revoked
indefinitely. This administrative action has no effect on procedures to
be followed under the UCMJ. Paragraph 16 provides information about suspensions and revocations for incidents involving the use of intoxicants or controlled substances.
c. German police authorities may forcibly administer chemical tests according to their laws.
a. POVs with U.S. Forces POV license plates must
carry approved first-aid kits and portable, reflectorized warning
triangles. Triangles and kits should be carried in the passenger section
(preferably under the front seat), not in the trunk of the vehicle.
Failure to carry warning triangles or first-aid kits is grounds for
withdrawing U.S. Forces registration privileges.
b. Drivers are required to warn approaching traffic
if their vehicle is stopped on any road by using flashing lights and
placing the warning triangle 100 meters (200 meters on autobahns) behind
the disabled vehicle.
28. GOOD SAMARITAN LAW
The German criminal code states that “whoever, in case of an accident or
common danger or distress, does not render aid, although such aid is
necessary and can be expected of him or her under the circumstances,
especially if it is possible to do so without substantial danger to
himself or herself and without violating other important duties, will be
punished by imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or by a fine.”
a. The tread depth of POV tires must be at least 1.6 millimeters over the entire traction surface.
b. Radial tires and bias-ply tires cannot be mixed.
All four tires must be the same (radial or bias-ply). Two snow tires
and two regular tires may be used only if they are of the same type (e below).
c. Studded tires and tires that protrude beyond the fenders are prohibited.
d. German law does not require passenger cars to be equipped with snow
tires or chains except in certain mountainous areas. These areas are
marked with traffic signs (sign 268). At some mountain passes, chains may be rented. The maximum speed while driving a vehicle with chains is 50 kph (31 mph).
e. Only snow tires without spikes or studs are
allowed in Germany. If only two snow tires are used, they must be
mounted on the drive wheels. Four-wheel-drive vehicles must have the
snow tires mounted on the rear wheels. Radial snow tires may be used
only with regular radial tires. Bias-ply snow tires may be used only
with regular bias-ply tires.
f. Incorrectly inflated tires increase surface rolling resistance.
Many drivers do not inflate their tires to the recommended levels.
Underinflated tires cause a fuel efficiency loss of 1 percent for every 2
pounds the tires are below their recommended pressure. Drivers should
check tire pressure with a tire gauge during preventive maintenance
checks and services (PMCS). The check should be made before driving,
because tire pressure increases with the heat produced from driving.
This can give a falsely high reading. Drivers should consider the
following:
(1) Tires should be inflated at the recommended pressures.
(2) Tires should be inflated at the upper level of the recommended range for best fuel efficiency.
(3) Tire wear increases and vehicle handling becomes more difficult when tires are inflated incorrectly.
(1)
Crossing the white stripe painted across the lane of traffic when
stopping for a red light is forbidden. Drivers may make a right turn
when the light is red if a green arrow is attached to the right of the
main light (shown on the right). Drivers must come to a complete stop
and ensure the road is clear of traffic before making the turn.
(2) The rule in (1) above
also applies when the light is yellow if the vehicle can be stopped
without endangering traffic to the rear. A driver must never speed
through a yellow light. Some intersections have cameras programmed to
photograph vehicles caught in the intersection when the light turns red.
When that happens, the driver can expect to be fined and may lose
driving privileges.
(3) German traffic rules concerning blinking yellow and single yellow
lights differ from and should not be confused with U.S. rules.
(a) In Germany, a blinking yellow light indicates that the light
is out of order. The driver must follow the posted signs and yield (sign 205), stop (sign 206), or proceed (sign 306) as appropriate. When no signs are posted beneath the light, the right-before-left rule applies.
(b) Operational green or red traffic lights take priority over traffic signs.
(4) An intersection or road junction regulated by an overhead
traffic light and having several lanes may have a separate traffic light
for each lane. A traffic light with an illuminated—
(a) Red “X” indicates that the lane is closed.
(b) Green arrow pointing downward indicates traffic in that lane may proceed.
(c) Green arrow pointing either left or right indicates traffic may turn in the direction of the arrow.
(5) When a driver stops at an intersection
because traffic is backed up, German law requires the driver to leave
enough space for vehicles on the intersecting street to clear the
intersection. This situation happens often where two intersections are
close together. The driver is responsible for knowing when to stop in
dense traffic and not pulling into the intersection, even though the
traffic light is green.
b. Bicycles and Motorcycles.
(1) German law requires passing drivers to leave at least 1.5 meters between their vehicle and the cyclist.
(2) When passing any vehicle, drivers should be alert for—
(a) The person who is being passed pulling over to pass a bicycle or motorcycle.
(b) Oncoming drivers going over the center line to pass bicycles and motorcycles.
(c) Two-wheeled vehicles that are passing parked vehicles.
(d) Bicycles, motorbikes, and motorcycles threading through traffic.
These vehicles have the same rights on the roads as other drivers
c. Cell Phones. German law prohibits the use of hand-held cell
phones when operating POVs or riding bicycles. Only “hands-free”
telephones that allow the driver to keep his or her hands on the
steering wheel and eyes on the road may be used. Failure to obey this
law could result in fines, points assessed against the license, or both.
Hand-held cell phones may be used only if the POV is stationary and the
motor is switched off.
(1) U-turns are legal within city limits when all of the following apply:
(a) There is no sign that prohibits U-turns.
(b) The lane being crossed has a broken line (not a solid line).
(c) The road is clear and there is enough time to make the turn without endangering other vehicles.
(2) U-turns are never permitted on—
(a) Autobahns.
(b) Multilane highways.
(c) Roads outside city limits except where the center line is broken
and traffic is clear so that the turn can be made without endangering
other vehicles.
e. Fatigue. Driving while fatigued is the
cause of many single-car accidents. Individuals taking medication should
ensure the medication will not affect their driving ability. During
long trips, the driver should stop and rest, walk around, or drink
coffee or fluids at least every 2 hours. Drivers also should make sure
there is enough fresh air circulating inside the car.
f. German Police Hand Signals. The signals
used by German police officers are different from those used by police
officers in the United States. These signals and their meanings are
shown in figures 1 through 5. The
basic rule is that traffic parallel to the outstretched arms of the
officer may proceed and traffic facing the front or back of the officer
must wait. German police officer signals take priority over traffic
signals, even if the traffic signals are operating.
g. International Driving Requirements.
National requirements for liability insurance, customs documents, and
drivers licenses vary and are subject to change. The local customs field
office can provide information on international driving requirements.
Before driving outside Germany, individuals must obtain an international
drivers license. The nationality marker ((3) below) must be attached to the back of POVs that will be driven outside of Germany.
(1) International Insurance Card. An international
insurance card, also known as the “green card,” is required in most
European countries. POV owners can obtain a green card from their
insurance company on request. The green card is provided free to
policyholders who purchase minimum liability insurance coverage.
(2) International Driving Permit.
(a) Some countries require international driving permits to drive
an automobile within their borders. Permits may be obtained in all
German cities. The local MP or SF office can provide the location of
issuing agencies. To acquire an international driving permit,
individuals must present the following:
1. An application form. Forms in English are available at the issuing agency.
2. A valid U.S. Forces certificate of license (AE Form 190-1F).
3. A 1½- by 2-inch, vertical-format photograph of themselves in civilian clothes. Some cities may require two photographs.
4. A U.S. passport (required only for Army and Air Force civilians and Family members).
5. Appropriate fee (in euros).
(b) Applicants will apply for international drivers licenses in the town or city where they live.
(c) Personnel affiliated with the U.S. Forces must have a U.S. Forces
certificate of license if they are driving either a
U.S.-Forces-registered vehicle or a vehicle bearing German license
plates. U.S. Forces personnel may not drive vehicles in Europe with only
an international drivers license. International drivers licenses are—
1. Valid for 3 years from the date of issue or expiration of the U.S. Forces certificate of license, whichever comes first.
2. Not valid in the country where they are issued.
(3) Nationality Marker. An oval
international “USA” decal (which the owner must obtain) is required if
the POV crosses international borders using U.S. Forces “European-style”
license plates. U.S. Forces POVs with German license plates issued by
the U.S. Forces will use the “D” decal.
h. Lighting.
(1) Vehicle headlights must be used at
night, at dawn, and at dusk. Low-beam headlights must be used during the
day when visibility is limited because of inclement weather (for
example, fog, snow, rain).
(2) Using only parking lights when driving is prohibited.
(3) Fog lights may be used only with low-beam
headlights and when visibility is impaired by fog, heavy rain, or heavy
snow. Rear fog lights may be used only when the visibility is less than
50 meters.
(4) High-beam headlights must be dimmed for oncoming vehicles and when approaching a vehicle from behind.
(5) Drivers who park in an area that is not lit well enough for the
vehicle to be seen (for example, where streetlights do not remain on all
night) must use front and rear parking lights. Traffic sign 394
is posted in areas where parking lights are necessary. Drivers of POVs
with U.S. specifications should try to avoid parking in these areas,
because their vehicles are not designed so that the lights can be left
on without weakening the battery.
i. Vision. The driver’s vision must be free of obstructions,
and windows must be clean at all times. Under German law, drivers may be
fined for failure to remove snow or ice from windows. The interior and
exterior rearview mirrors also must be clean and properly adjusted for
maximum visibility.
j. Breakdowns. When a vehicle breaks down on the autobahn, use the nearest emergency telephone (para 21g).
The telephone operator will dispatch a tow truck. Vehicles may be towed
only to the next exit. On other roads, German police may help. If
unable to get help otherwise, towing services are listed in the yellow
pages under Abschleppdienst.
When approaching an intersection, drivers must be alert for a red
traffic signal or a police officer standing in this position, which
means the driver must come to a complete stop. Note that this officer’s
signal to stop applies to drivers in front of and behind him, not to
drivers to his right and left.
Figure 1. German Police Signals (Stop)
This police officer is waving traffic through the intersection with
his right hand while signaling with his left hand for all traffic in
front of him and behind him to wait.
Figure 2. German Police Signals (Stop)
This police officer standing in the middle of the intersection with
one arm raised is signaling all drivers to stop and telling drivers in
front of and behind him to prepare to proceed.
Figure 3. German Police Signals (Attention)
This police officer standing with arms outstretched and pointing in
the driver’s direction is signaling the driver to proceed. The officer
signaling the driver to go will stand sideways to the oncoming traffic.
Figure 4. German Police Signals (Go)
The driver may proceed as long as the police officer continues to wave traffic through.
a. General. Driving in Europe is very demanding. Learning
and following the rules of the road and using the information in this
pamphlet will help prevent accidents and make driving in Europe more
enjoyable.
(1) Some problems encountered while driving in Europe are
unfamiliar traffic signs and narrow roads that can cause problems for
large American vehicles. Traffic density adds to the difficulty of
driving in Europe.
(2) Cobblestone streets and streetcar tracks are very common and
extremely dangerous when wet or icy, as are narrow secondary roads with
high peaks and sharp curves. Autobahns often have no speed limits and
European drivers often tailgate at high speeds. This may tempt drivers
to drive at reckless speeds.
(3) European drivers often pass on hills and curves and in the face
of oncoming traffic, causing extreme traffic hazards. Most European
drivers know when they have the right-of-way and will, in some cases,
take the right-of-way when they do not have it.
b. Causes of Accidents and Preventive Measures.
(1) Accidents normally occur because of unsafe driving. Statistics indicate the majority of accidents are due to—
(a) Driving while intoxicated.
(b) Failing to yield the right-of-way.
(c) Driving too fast for road or weather conditions.
(d) Driving inattentively.
(e) Misjudging clearance.
(f) Driving a mechanically unsafe vehicle.
(2) Americans can drive safely in Europe if they learn to react
quickly to local traffic signs and to anticipate the actions of other
drivers. Most accidents can be avoided by—
(a) Driving sober and always being alert.
(b) Driving defensively.
(c) Being alert and courteous, regardless of who has the right-of-way.
(d) Helping to prevent dangerous situations.
(e) Becoming familiar with local driving customs and laws.
(f) Maintaining vehicles in excellent mechanical condition.
c. Motorcycles. Drivers of two-wheeled vehicles must not cut in
and out of traffic. The slightest contact with another vehicle may
upset their motorcycles. Accidents involving two-wheeled vehicles cause
almost certain injury or death to the driver and passenger of the
two-wheeled vehicle.
b. POVs also must meet the mechanical standards
considered acceptable in local military and German communities. POVs may
be rejected during mechanical inspection for missing parts, excessive
rust, unsightly markings, bent hoods, torn fenders, faulty body
trimming, or altered U.S. Forces license plates.
c. Commanders will ensure that first-line supervisors or platoon
sergeants visually inspect POVs belonging to their subordinates every
180 days. If the first-line supervisor or platoon sergeant determines
that a POV is below acceptable standards based on its exterior
condition, the POV owner must do one of the following:
(1) Correct the deficiencies.
(2) Place the POV in a nonoperational status if deficiencies cannot be corrected in a reasonable amount of time.
d. Brand-new POVs (vehicles never registered in any registration system)
are exempt from vehicle inspection for 24 months after the first
registration date. Other POVs must be inspected annually.
(1) Military and civilian sponsors must register POVs with the
RMV. Family members may register POVs with the German authorities or the
RMV.
(2) The number of POVs that may be registered at any time is limited as follows:
(a) Accompanied personnel: three POVs and two recreational vehicles.
(b) Unaccompanied personnel: one POV and one recreational vehicle.
(3) Waivers to the limit on POVs registered must be approved by the
applicant’s military commander in the immediate chain of command. If
the applicant has no military commander in his or her chain of command,
the request must be approved by the applicant’s garrison or squadron
commander.
(4) U.S.-Forces-registered POVs will not be used for private
commercial purposes (for example, cosmetics sales, pizza deliveries) (AE Reg 210-70/USAFE Reg 211-16).
(5) There are three types of POV registrations.
(a) Regular. A regular registration is valid for 1 year
and must be renewed each year. This registration remains valid if
insurance and mechanical requirements are met.
(c) Nonoperational. A nonoperational registration is valid
for 3 months for vehicles that are mechanically deficient, are not
driven year-round, or lack required liability insurance.
b. How to Apply for Regular Registration.
(1) When applying for a regular registration, the following must be presented to the local FRS:
(a) Completed AE Form 190-1AA with proof of inspection. When a POV is transferred, the buyer may do one of the following:
1. Have the POV inspected and receive a 12-month registration certificate.
2. Accept the seller’s inspection (if it was performed more
than 60 days before the expiration of the current registration) and
receive a registration certificate with the seller’s expiration date.
(b) Must remain on the vehicle for which they are registered.
(c) Will not be transferred to another vehicle.
(d) Must be attached firmly to the front
and rear of the POV using bolts, screws, or brackets. Rear license
plates must be illuminated. Motorcycles and trailers will display only
one plate mounted on the rear. Securing plates using string or wire is
prohibited.
(2) POV owners will not—
(a) Display invalid, defaced, or forged license plates.
(e) Attach old license plates or signs to or around U.S. Forces license plates.
d. Decals. Expiration decals are issued with initial and
renewal registrations. This decal indicates the day, month, and year in
which the permanent registration expires. Expiration decals for POVs
with European-style U.S. Forces license plates are placed on each
license plate. Expiration decals for motorcycles and trailers are
attached to the license plate. There is no expiration date for temporary
decals; the expiration date is written on the temporary verification
decal.
e. Mandatory Third-Party Liability Insurance.
(1) POV owners are required to maintain the
minimum liability insurance coverage required by German law. Minimum
coverage for POVs (including trailers) is—
(a) €7.5 million per accident for damages related to personal injury.
(b) €1 million for property damage.
(c) €50,000 for damages neither directly nor indirectly related to
personal injury or property damage (consequential damage).
(2) Insurance requirements are higher for POVs with more than eight
seats (not counting the driver’s seat). Specific information may be
obtained from an insurance company.
(3) The ICC is the only acceptable proof of
insurance for registration under German law and U.S. Forces regulations.
The insurance policy itself is not acceptable proof of insurance for
registration.
(4) When the RMV receives the ICC, the POV insurance is considered in
force until the RMV receives a cancellation notice from the insurance
company or the license plates are changed. Owners should note that
cancellation notices are mailed from the insurance company directly to
the RMV and that the company might fail to advise the owner of the
cancellation.
(a) If the RMV receives a cancellation
notice and finds the owner has not provided proof of continuing
insurance by submitting another ICC to the RMV, the U.S. Forces are
obliged by international agreements to cancel the POV registration.
(b) If the POV registration is canceled ((a) above),
the RMV will instruct the POV owner’s commander or supervisor. The
commander or supervisor will ask the MP or SF to remove the license
plates (AE Reg 190-1/USAFE Inst 31-202, para 3-12c).
(5) An owner’s agreement with the insurance company provides
coverage only for injuries and property damages up to fixed amounts ((1) above).
(a) Although these amounts may appear to be large, they may be insufficient, especially if lengthy hospitalization is required.
(b) Under German law, it is possible for an insurance company to
charge the policyholder the amount paid to a third party if the
policyholder’s conduct caused the accident (for example, the owner
drives while drunk or permits an unlicensed driver to drive the POV). In
these cases, the company may recover up to €2,500 from the
policyholder.
f. Disposition of a U.S.-Forces-Registered POV.
(1) A POV must be properly disposed of before the registrant departs Germany. Disposal may be accomplished by—
(a) Export (shipment) at Government or personal expense.
(b) Sale or gift to another person with SOFA tax and customs privileges.
(c) Sale or gift to a person without SOFA tax and customs privileges after settlement of German tax and customs liabilities.
(d) Donation to the U.S. Government or one of its instrumentalities,
normally the community morale, welfare, and recreation fund.
(2) Registrants are responsible for proper disposition of POVs before departing Germany. Abandoning a POV—
(b) Is punishable under the UCMJ and may lead to adverse administrative action.
g. Other Prohibitions Concerning POV Operation and Disposition. Military and civilian personnel and their Family members will not—
(1) Alter U.S. Forces registration certificates or U.S. Forces certificates of license.
(2) Drive a U.S.-Forces-plated POV—
(a) Without a valid U.S. Forces
registration certificate, identification card, valid country license,
and certificate of license. When POV owners permit other U.S. Forces
POV-licensed drivers or drivers authorized by AR 190-1/USAFE Instruction
31-202, paragraph 4-10, to operate their POV, the drivers must carry
the appropriate registration certificate for that POV. If the POV will
be operated outside Germany, the owner must also provide the driver
written permission and the international insurance (green) card.
(b) Purchased from another individual until ownership has been properly transferred at an FRS.
(3) Remove, alter, or deface the engine number or manufacturer’s
serial number, or permit this action, on a U.S.-Forces-plated POV.
(4) Sell, lend, dispose of, or otherwise use license plates,
verification decals, or expiration decals except as authorized in AE Regulation 190-1/USAFE Instruction 31-202.
(5) Sell, lend, or give a POV to someone who is not a member of the
U.S. Forces (for example, German national or tourist) without proper
customs clearance.
(6) Submit applications for either a certificate of license or vehicle registration that have incorrect or false data.
(7) Sell, give, or otherwise dispose of a POV that is under a lien without the written consent of the lienholder.
(8) Park POVs without valid U.S. Forces license plates on public
roads, in public areas, in family-housing areas, on military
installations, or in areas that may be viewed by the public.
h. Withdrawal of POV Registration Privileges.
Registration privileges may be suspended for a period of at least 30
days, but not to exceed 180 days, if the owner does any of the
following:
(1) Fails to register or reregister a POV 30 days or more after the registration expires.
(2) Operates a POV that does not meet mechanical standards.
(5) Alters license plates or fails to secure them properly.
(6) Fails to submit payment within the time specified for the
registration fee after being notified that the initial check was
returned for insufficient funds.
(7) Refuses to remove or cover indecent or obscene bumper stickers, signs, writing, or graphic depictions on a POV.
(8) Transfers license plates to another POV without properly registering the plates.
i. Restrictions on Displaying Written or Graphic Material.
(1) U.S.-Forces-registered POVs (including those registered as
nonoperational) displaying indecent or obscene bumper stickers, license
plates, signs, writing, or graphic depictions of any sort will not be
permitted on U.S. Forces installations.
(2) Community commanders will deny entry of POVs displaying indecent
or obscene material to U.S. Forces installations until the indecent or
obscene material is removed or covered.
(3) Drivers and owners of POVs displaying indecent or obscene
material on a U.S. Forces installation are subject to having their U.S.
Forces certificate of license suspended. Licenses will be suspended
until the material has been removed or covered. Licenses will be
suspended if drivers and owners—
(a) Drive onto a U.S. Forces installation after being informed
that they are denied entry until the material is removed or covered.
(b) Fail to remove or cover indecent or obscene material on the POV
located on a U.S. Forces installation or to remove the POV from the
installation.
(1) This paragraph provides basic safety measures for driving Government vehicles.
(2) Persons applying for certificates of license to operate a POV are
not required to know the information in this paragraph. Persons
applying for an OF 346 or AF Form 2293 are required to know the
information in sections I and II of this pamphlet.
(3) This paragraph does not include all safety measures. Drivers of
Government vehicles must know German traffic laws and U.S. Army and U.S.
Air Force rules and regulations governing the operation of motor
vehicles.
b. Basic Rules.
(1) Engines will not be idled while Government vehicles are
standing except for necessary warm-ups and maintenance checks.
Radio-equipped vehicles that are expected to be standing for 15 minutes
or more will go out of service at that location. Engines are required to
generate power for radios.
(2) Government vehicles on dispatch will carry basic equipment to
handle common breakdowns. This equipment will include at least a spare
tire, jack, lug wrench, first-aid kit, and warning triangle.
(3) Cargo-carrying vehicles without tailgates or with tailgates less
than 42 inches high that are used to carry personnel will be equipped
with standard safety straps. The safety straps will be fastened when
personnel are being carried in cargo compartments.
(4) Drivers of emergency vehicles (such as fire department, MP, SF,
and medical vehicles) will obey traffic regulations. Exceptions will be
made only if the military authority allows the driver to exceed
restrictions or as described in (5) below.
Drivers operating vehicles under emergency conditions will warn of
their approach using signals that can be seen (rotating lights) or
signals that can be heard (sirens).
(5) Drivers of emergency vehicles may exceed traffic restrictions when—
(a) MP or SF vehicles are in pursuit of actual or suspected violators.
(b) MP or SF vehicles are on emergency runs.
(c) Fire department or medical vehicles are operated in response to an emergency call or alarm.
(6) Only one passenger other than the driver is permitted to ride
on the front seat in all but the following Government vehicles:
(a) M249 and M250 trucks.
(b) Tactical and nontactical vehicles equipped with individual seats for crewmembers.
(c) Vehicles with front seats 51 or more inches wide (for example,
communication vans, garbage trucks) that normally have two or more
crewmembers assigned besides the vehicle driver
(7) Not more than one Government vehicle will be towed behind a
vehicle on a public highway. A standard tow bar or wrecker truck must be
used for towing. Tow chains may be used only—
(a) If wrecker trucks or tow bars are not available.
(b) To tow vehicles short distances to clear roads.
(8) Non-convoy Government vehicles may pass vehicles in a convoy
only when drivers follow the procedures for passing prescribed in
paragraphs 18 and 20b.
(9) Military personnel who are employed or detailed to perform duty
as drivers of Government vehicles will not drink alcoholic beverages
during the period they are scheduled to drive or within 8 hours before
their scheduled driving duty.
(10) Drivers will not smoke while driving Government vehicles.
(11) Government-vehicle drivers will not engage in races.
c. Transporting Hazardous Cargo.
(1) Special measures must be taken when a Government vehicle is
used to transport explosives, flammable liquids (for example, gasoline),
acids, and other dangerous cargo. AE Regulation 55-1, AE Regulation 55-355/USAFE Instruction 24-201, and Air Force Manual 91-201 prescribe procedures for transporting dangerous cargo.
(2) Drivers will have disabled vehicles towed away from built-up
areas and moved from the traveled part of the road as soon as possible.
Explosives will not be transferred to another vehicle unless the proper
authority approves the transfer.
(3) Vehicles transporting hazardous cargo will not be equipped with railroad fuses or flares.
(4) If visibility is less than 50 meters, drivers must stop at the nearest parking area until visibility improves.
(5) If a truck or bus weighing more than 3.5 tons carrying hazardous
cargo is traveling faster than 50 kph, drivers must maintain a distance
of at least 50 meters from the vehicle in front of them.
d. Government Buses.
(1) Rules for allowing passengers to stand on Government buses are as follows:
(a) Standing is allowed only within city limits and only when the
number of people standing is not more than half of the vehicle’s
seating capacity.
(b) No more than one passenger for each row of forward-facing seats may stand.
(c) Passengers will not stand forward of the guardrail (or painted
line) behind the driver (or the rear of the driver seat) when the
drivers seat is adjusted to its rearmost position ((2) below).
(d) School children will be allowed to stand only while being
transported on a Government installation and then only when they have
access to handholds, vertical handrails, or hanger straps. A seat must
be provided for each child on regular bus runs, and each child must be
seated when buses are carrying only children (for example, school runs).
(2) A line will be painted across the front
interior of each bus. Passengers will not be permitted to stand in front
of this line. The line must be far enough to the rear of the driver’s
seat to allow the driver clear vision on the right.
(3) Emergency equipment, including emergency-exit doors, must be in
proper operating condition. Cargo and passengers on the bus must not
block emergency-exit doors while the vehicle is in operation.
(4) Government buses must be equipped with mechanical or electrical
turn signals, two amber clearance lights at the rear, at least two amber
reflectors on each side, and two amber or red reflectors in the rear.
Special kits for these items are available through ordnance supply
channels.
(5) The bus gross weight (vehicle body weight combined with the
weight of its oil, water, fuel, driver, and the total weight of the
passenger load (based on 100 pounds per person)) must not exceed the
maximum gross vehicle-weight rating established by the manufacturer.
e. Convoys. Commanders planning a military convoy must obtain a clearance as prescribed by AE Regulation 55-1. Government vehicles in a convoy will—
(1) Park bumper-to-bumper when they stop on the autobahn.
(2) Not force their way onto autobahns.
f. Road Guides. Road guides help Government-vehicle drivers
arrive at their destinations, particularly during convoy operations.
Road guides do not have the authority to direct civilian traffic outside
U.S. military installations. Any attempt to direct civilian traffic
outside U.S. military installations may cause an accident and result in
difficulties with German police authorities and claims against the U.S.
Government.
g. Government-Vehicle Markings. Identification markings on
the bumpers of Government vehicles must be kept clean, particularly when
convoys travel on public roads from home station to training areas (for
example, Augsburg to Grafenwöhr). Bumper markings must not be covered
by tape or mud when vehicles are operated on public streets and
highways. Markings may be covered, however, while vehicles are in
selected maneuver areas.
h. The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV).
The HMMWV was designed to be driven on rough ground. It is not made to
travel at high speeds on modern highways. Serious accidents involving
HMMWVs happen because drivers are not aware of HMMWV traits or do not
adapt driving habits to its traits. HMMWVs must be driven at the
recommended speeds (or slower) on improved highways to avoid losing
control of the vehicle.
i. Winter Driving. Local commanders will take extra precautions
during winter to ensure that Government vehicles are maintained
properly. Local commanders will—
(1) Conduct a winter-safety driver-training course each year in October or November.
(2) Control vehicle dispatches to reduce them to a minimum when driving conditions are poor.
(3) Limit night dispatches to emergencies. Exceptions may be made for
MP or SF patrols that are necessary for preventing and investigating
crimes, offenses, and traffic accidents.
(4) Arrange for overnight billeting for drivers on extended trips and ensure that driving does not continue into the night.
(5) Dispatch vehicles over the least dangerous routes.
(6) Ensure vehicles are inspected before each dispatch. Particular care must be taken to check the following:
(a) Brakes.
(b) Defroster.
(c) Horn.
(d) Lights.
(e) Safety devices.
(f) Snow chains.
(g) Steering mechanism.
(h) Windshield wipers.
(7) Ensure that defective vehicles are not dispatched.
(8) Ensure that dispatch drivers or supervisory personnel with
European winter driving experience accompany replacement drivers on
their first bad-weather dispatch.
(9) Instruct drivers on local road hazards and defensive-driving techniques.
35. TRIP-PLANNING TECHNIQUES
Most drivers make about 1,400 automobile trips and use about 3,200
liters (800 gallons) of gasoline each year. With minimal effort, drivers
can plan for efficient and economical travel. Drivers can save 5 to 10
percent of the fuel they use by following the tips in this paragraph. By
changing travel habits, driving techniques, and vehicle type and
maintenance (c through h below), drivers can save up to 40 percent of fuel costs.
a. Cold Start. A vehicle driven from a cold start and making
a short trip (for example, 1 to 4 miles) probably will achieve only 20
percent of the fuel efficiency possible after all parts of the vehicle
are warm. That means a car capable of 20 miles per gallon (mpg) may get
only 4 mpg under cold-start and short-trip conditions. Cold-start
penalties can be reduced by combining short trips. Initial fuel
inefficiency can be offset by using the vehicle for one long trip,
during which the car can reach maximum fuel efficiency. Cold starts
reduce fuel efficiency for the following reasons:
(1) Tire Resistance. Tires resist motion when they are cold. Tire resistance decreases only after the vehicle has been driven for a while.
(2) Engine Resistance. Engine lubricants are designed to reduce resistance. Lubricants perform best when they are warm.
(3) Vehicle Resistance. Initially, all parts of a vehicle
resist motion. Vehicle parts must be lubricated properly to overcome
resistance. This happens after the vehicle has traveled about 15 miles.
By combining trips, fuel can be saved because car parts—
(a) Have time to warm up.
(b) Stay lubricated for 15 to 20 minutes after the vehicle has stopped.
(c) Stay warm for 3 to 4 hours after the vehicle has stopped.
b. Vehicle Idling. Most drivers do not understand the
relationship between vehicle idling and fuel efficiency. A 30-second
warm-up, followed by driving at slow to moderate speeds, is best for
fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency is worst (0 mpg) when a vehicle is
idling and stationary. If the engine is warm and the driver expects to
let the vehicle idle for more than 30 seconds, it is more efficient to
turn the engine off and restart it when ready to drive away than to keep
the engine running. Drivers also can save fuel if they release the gas
pedal when slowing down or stopping. The vehicle’s momentum will
generate the speed needed to drive.
c. Combining Trips. Drivers who plan their
travel save fuel, time, and money. By combining trips, drivers will
spend less time driving, avoid unnecessary journeys, drive fewer miles,
and achieve the object of several short trips at a lower cost. Combining
trips also reduces cold starts and vehicle resistance. Drivers should
combine trips that—
(1) Need to be made in the same time period.
(2) Are to be made in the same area or in the same direction.
(3) Can be plotted on a round-trip course.
d. Route Selection. Select routes that allow for uninterrupted
travel. To achieve best fuel efficiency, choose routes that avoid
traffic lights, traffic jams, and stop-and-go situations.
e. Vehicle Loads. Cargo and passenger weight affect fuel
efficiency. Overloading causes the fuel efficiency to drop. Every extra
100 pounds reduces fuel efficiency by 3 to 6 percent. It is important to
use the right vehicle for the load to be carried. If possible, loads
should be carried inside the vehicle. Loads carried outside restrict the
vehicle’s forward motion and increase fuel consumption.
f. Travel Alternatives. Many official-work needs can be met without using a vehicle. The following alternatives should be considered:
(1) Sharing rides on official trips.
(2) Walking or bicycling.
(3) Using the telephone when a call can save taking a trip.
(4) Using scheduled mail deliveries or distribution channels.
g. Vehicle Maintenance. Regular vehicle maintenance helps
prevent breakdowns and is an important aspect of fuel efficiency and
driving safety. Many maintenance tasks for fuel efficiency are simple
and inexpensive.
(1) Fuel and Oil. Drivers should use the appropriate fuel
and motor oil. Using a higher octane gasoline than recommended does not
improve a vehicle’s fuel efficiency or make up for lack of maintenance.
Engine oil that is too thick will resist flow and increase friction
among engine parts. Increased engine friction results in higher
consumption. Drivers should use a multiple viscosity oil (for example,
10-40, 10-50) that changes thickness in response to temperature changes.
New and improved oils can increase a vehicle’s fuel efficiency by 3 to 5
percent.
(2) Maintenance Checks. Drivers can prevent costly repairs
by performing PMCS on their vehicles. The operator’s manual indicates
how the checks are to be made.
(3) Tune-Up Requirements. Drivers will achieve high fuel
efficiency by ensuring their vehicles are tuned correctly. If a vehicle
is running poorly, proper tuning could improve its fuel efficiency by 4
to 12 percent.
(4) Correct Tuning for Engine Efficiency. Drivers should
notice signs that indicate their vehicle needs tuning. If the fuel
efficiency decreases, tuning could be the solution. Drivers should check
for other causes of decreasing fuel efficiency before tuning their
vehicle (for example, overloading, incorrectly inflated tires). Drivers
should be aware of the following:
(a) An engine should perform smoothly and respond to normal driving situations.
(b) A tuned vehicle should pull away without stalling after a 30-second warm-up.
(c) To pinpoint specific problems, drivers should take their vehicles to their supporting motor-maintenance activity.
(5) Maintenance Schedule. To ensure efficient fuel consumption
and good operating condition, drivers should service their vehicles at
the times scheduled by the transportation motor pool or manufacturer.
The frequency of maintenance depends on driving habits, road conditions,
and the type of vehicle.
h. Driving Skills. In rallies sponsored by the U.S. Department
of Energy, 80 percent of the participants achieved a higher fuel
efficiency than the manufacturer’s estimate for their vehicles. Drivers
can achieve the same results by using the following fuel-saving driving
techniques:
(1) Thirty-Second Warm-Up. After initially starting their
vehicles, drivers should idle the engine for 30 seconds to allow it to
warm up. Drivers should drive off at moderate speeds to allow the other
parts of the vehicle to warm up.
(2) Driving Away After Stopping. After stopping, drivers
should accelerate briskly and steadily. Drivers should not completely
depress the accelerator because this will waste fuel. Drivers should
continue accelerating until the vehicle reaches a fuel-efficient speed.
(3) Approaching an Incline. Drivers should accelerate
before approaching an incline. This produces higher speed with less fuel
consumption than accelerating on the incline. Near the top, drivers
should slow down, allowing the vehicle’s momentum to carry it over the
crest and cruise down the other side.
(4) Maintaining a Fuel-Efficient Speed.
(a) Drivers should drive smoothly and steadily and keep within
the speed range that achieves the best fuel efficiency for their
vehicles. The speed range varies according to the vehicle being driven.
Most vehicles, however, are fuel-efficient at speeds between 35 and 45
mph. If a vehicle gets 22 mpg in its fuel-efficient speed range of 35 to
45 mph, it will achieve only about 20 mpg at speeds of 30 to 50 mph.
(b) Unnecessary direction and speed changes waste time and fuel.
The slightest pressure on the brake or accelerator reduces fuel
efficiency.
(c) Drivers should adjust to the high speed limits in Germany,
especially on the autobahns, while maintaining fuel-efficient speeds.
(5) Anticipating Traffic Conditions. To maintain maximum
fuel efficiency, drivers should avoid adverse traffic conditions by
anticipating problems. In the city, drivers should anticipate and
respond to traffic conditions 12 seconds (or a block) away. On the
highway, drivers should anticipate and respond to changes in conditions
up to a quarter of a mile away. Drivers also should be aware of traffic
conditions to the side and rear of their vehicles, particularly before
changing lanes.
(6) Buffer Zones. Drivers will increase safety and fuel
efficiency by maintaining a free area (buffer zone) around their
vehicle. The buffer zone offers the following advantages:
(a) Relaxed driving.
(b) Room to maneuver.
(c) Increased margin of safety.
(d) Time to react to conditions around the vehicle.
a. General. Bicycles are considered legal traffic and are
subject to the same laws and regulations as POVs. Bicycle operators and
passengers on U.S. military installations will wear a helmet properly
fastened under the chin. Bicyclists should also wear light-colored
clothing or reflective accessories. Helmets must meet the American
National Standards Institute, Snell Memorial Foundation Standards, or
Economic Commission European Standards for bicycle helmets. Bicycle
operators will not use cell phones or wear listening devices that impede
hearing and the detection of impending danger.
b. Legal Requirements. German law states that bicyclists are—
(1) Required to operate bicycles with—
(a) Two independent braking systems.
(b) A headlight (when riding during times of limited visibility).
(c) A bell.
(d) Pedals with reflectors.
(e) A taillight that can reflect light if the electrical circuit fails (when riding during times of limited visibility).
(f) A white reflector in the front and a red reflector in the back.
(2) Prohibited from riding on sidewalks if they are more than 8
years old. Children 8 years old and younger, however, must ride their
bicycles on the sidewalk if bicycle paths are not available. When the
road must be crossed, they must push bikes across.
(3) Authorized to carry only the number of people the bicycle is
designed and equipped to carry. Passengers must sit in an authorized,
attached seat.
(4) Not allowed to ride side by side in traffic.
(5) Required to ride in a single file outside city limits.
(6) Allowed to pass slowly on the right of stopped vehicles (for
example, at a stop light) if there is at least 1 meter between the
bicycle and the vehicle being passed.
(7) Required to slow down and stop, if necessary, for passengers entering or exiting buses on bicycle paths.
(8) Prohibited from operating a cell phone while moving.
c. Registration. Some communities have their own
bicycle-registration or theft-prevention system. The local MP or SF
station or installation coordinator can provide registration
information.
a. This section applies only to Army and Army-affiliated personnel
who are experienced motorcycle riders and who want to obtain a U.S.
Forces motorcycle drivers license. Riders should review the information
in this section to prepare themselves for the U.S. Forces motorcycle
test, which consists of 30 written questions and a 9-exercise
proficiency test. Experienced riders should already know the information
in this section. This information will be thoroughly discussed by the
instructor during the mandatory 4-hour Motorcycle Orientation Course.
Most of the motorcycle traffic situations in the 30-question written
test are among the sample test questions in appendix C of this pamphlet.
b. German and U.S. Forces laws require motorcycle drivers and their
passengers to wear protective helmets. All motorcycle riders should wear
protective clothing (for example, face shields, leather boots, jackets,
gloves, trousers). Owners should equip their vehicles with crash bars
and other protective equipment.
38. MOTORCYCLE BRAKES
This paragraph explains the characteristics of the brakes of a
motorcycle and how to apply the brakes under different driving
conditions. The following are important facts about motorcycle braking:
a. Motorcycles have two brakes: one each for the front and rear
wheel. Both brakes must be used at the same time. The front-wheel brake
is more powerful and can provide as much as three-quarters of the total
stopping power.
b. The most effective brake on a motorcycle is the front-wheel brake.
To prepare for braking, the operator must put one hand on the handbrake
lever and position one foot over the brake pedal. The normal braking
procedure is to apply both the handbrake and the footbrake together.
c. The rear wheel on a motorcycle tends to lock when braking more than
the front wheel because the transfer of weight during braking reduces
the load on the rear wheel.
d. Operators should use both brakes every time they slow or stop.
Using only the rear brake for “normal” stops will not permit operators
to develop the habit or skill of using the front brake properly in an
emergency. Squeeze the front brake and press down on the rear. Grabbing
at the front brake or jamming down on the rear can cause the brakes to
lock, resulting in control problems.
e. Apply both brakes at the same time. The sooner the front brake is
applied, the sooner it will start slowing the motorcycle down.
f. Some motorcycles have integrated braking systems that link the
front and rear brakes by applying the rear brake pedal. (Consult the
owner’s manual for a detailed explanation on the operation and effective
use of these systems.)
g. The brakes should be applied with extra caution when—
(1) It starts raining.
(2) Driving on wet roads or over wet streetcar tracks.
(3) Driving on roads with loose gravel, dirt, or leaves.
(4) The road is covered with hard-packed snow or ice.
(5) Driving at high speeds.
h. When driving on a long downhill slope, the operator should use
the braking action of the engine by shifting into a lower gear to slow
the motorcycle. The operator should not use the front brake only and
should not use the front and rear brake continuously because this can
reduce the brakes’ efficiency by making the brakes too hot.
i. When riding around a curve, the operator should reduce speed before
reaching the curve. This will prevent having to brake with force in the
curve. When riding on a wet road, never forget that disc brakes take
longer to work.
j. Both brakes must always be in perfect operating condition so the
operator can brake with both brakes in the shortest possible distance.
By having both braking systems in perfect operating condition, one
braking system will stop the motorcycle safely if the other brake fails.
Brake linings or brake blocks should be replaced when they are badly
worn or oily. Brakes should be readjusted if pedal or lever movements
are too great. The operator should also test for play in the wheel
bearings by jerking the wheel to and from sideways.
k. When a motorcycle is stationary for a long time, the operator
should apply the brakes occasionally to make sure the transmitting and
connecting components are working properly. Operators also should check
to make sure brake lights are working properly. When a motorcycle has
been left outside during wet weather for a long time, the operator
should drive slowly at first and apply the brakes gently. The operator
should be prepared for abnormal braking at the beginning of operation.
39. DRIVING TECHNIQUES
This paragraph explains the unique driving characteristics of operating a
motorcycle on different types of roads and road conditions. The
following are the different driving techniques a motorcyclist needs to
keep in mind when operating a motorcycle in Germany.
a. Riders often try to take curves or turns too fast. When they
cannot hold the turn, they end up crossing into another lane of traffic
or going off the road. Sometimes they overreact and brake too hard,
causing a skid and loss of control. Approach turns and curves with
caution. Use the four steps for better control:
(1) Slow. Reduce speed before the turn by closing the throttle and, if necessary, applying both brakes.
(2) Look. Look through the turn to where you want to go.
Turn just your head, not your shoulders, and keep your eyes level with
the horizon.
(3) Lean. To turn, the motorcycle must lean. To lean the
motorcycle, push on the handgrip in the direction of the turn. (Push
left + lean left = go left. Push right + lean right = go right.) Higher
speeds and tighter turns require the motorcycle to lean more. In normal
turns, the rider and motorcycle should lean together at the same angle.
In slow tight turns, lean the motorcycle only and keep the body
straight.
(4) Roll. Roll on the throttle through the turn. Maintain a steady speed or accelerate gradually. Avoid decelerating in the turn.
b. The chance of falling or being involved in a collision increases when riding over—
(1) Uneven surfaces or obstacles.
(2) Slippery surfaces.
(3) Railroad tracks.
(4) Grooves and gratings.
c. Watch for uneven surfaces such as bumps, broken pavement,
potholes, and small pieces of debris. Determine if it is possible to go
over the obstacle. Approach it at as closely to a 90-degree angle as
possible. Look where you want to go to control the path of travel. If
you have to ride over the obstacle, you should—
(1) Slow down to reduce the jolt, if time permits.
(2) Make sure the motorcycle is straight up.
(3) Rise slightly off the seat with your weight on the foot pegs to
absorb the shock with your knees and elbows. Rising off the seat will
reduce the chances of being thrown off the bike. Controlling the
throttle, however, can be somewhat tricky.
d. Motorcycles handle better when ridden on surfaces that permit good traction. Surfaces that provide poor traction include—
(1) Wet pavement, particularly just after it starts to rain and
before surface oil washes to the side of the road. The center of a lane
can be hazardous when wet. When it starts to rain, ride in the tire
tracks left by other vehicles. Often, the left tire track will be the
best position, depending on traffic and other road conditions.
(2) Gravel roads or places where sand and gravel collect. Dirt and
gravel collect along the sides of the road, especially on curves and
ramps leading to and from highways. Stay away from the edge of the road,
particularly when making sharp turns and getting on or off autobahns at
high speeds
(3) Mud, snow, and ice. Rain dries and snow melts faster on some
sections of a road than on others. Patches of ice tend to occur in low
or shaded areas and on bridges and overpasses. Wet surfaces or wet
leaves are just as slippery. Ride on the least slippery part of the
lane.
(4) Lane markings, steel plates, and manhole covers are especially dangerous when wet.
e. Stay away from roads covered with ice or snow. When a slippery
surface cannot be avoided, keep the bike straight up and proceed as
slowly as possible. If riding on a large surface so slippery that you
must coast or travel at a walking pace, consider letting your feet skim
along the surface; that way, if the bike starts to fall, you can catch
yourself. When doing this, be sure to keep off the brakes. If possible,
squeeze the clutch and coast. Attempting this maneuver at anything other
than the slowest speeds can be hazardous. To ride safely on slippery
surfaces—
(1) Reduce Speed. Slow down before you get to a slippery surface
to lessen the chances of skidding when stopping or turning. Motorcycles
need more distance to stop on a slippery surface. It is particularly
important to reduce speed before entering wet curves.
(2) Avoid Sudden Moves. Any sudden change in speed or direction can
cause a skid. Be as smooth as possible when speeding up, shifting gears,
turning, and braking.
(3) Use Both Brakes. The front brake is more effective even on a
slippery surface. Squeeze the brake lever gradually to avoid locking the
front wheel.
f. Usually it is safer to ride straight in the lane when crossing
tracks. Turning to take tracks head-on (at a 90-degree angle) can be
more dangerous because it may carry you into another lane of traffic.
Move far enough away from tracks, ruts, or pavement seams that run
parallel to your course to be able to cross at an angle of at least 45
degrees. Then make a quick, sharp turn. Edging across could catch the
tires and throw you off balance.
g. Riding over rain grooves or bridge gratings will cause a motorcycle
to feel as if it is wandering. This wandering feeling is generally not
hazardous. Relax, maintain speed, and ride straight across. Crossing at
an angle forces riders to zigzag to stay in the lane. Zigzagging is far
more hazardous than the wandering feeling.
h. When carrying a passenger or additional cargo, do not forget to
adjust the tire pressure to compensate for the additional weight. Also,
do not forget that additional weight will increase the braking distance
of the motorcycle. If the motorcycle is equipped with adjustable
suspension, make sure to adjust the suspension to compensate for the
additional weight. Avoid speeding up rapidly in a low gear or “popping”
the clutch when transporting a passenger or cargo or you might lose the
passenger or extra cargo.
i. When driving on the autobahn at high speeds or when overtaking a
truck pulling a trailer, be alert for strong side winds that could make
you sway sideways when you come out of the windbreak. When it is
raining, your vision will be obscured by rain and spray, and your
goggles or helmet visor could steam up. Under these conditions, reduce
speed and drive carefully.
j. To make a left turn when driving on a two-way road, position
yourself to the center of the lane on which you are traveling and make
the left turn.
k. At night it is harder for motorcyclists to see and be seen. Picking
a motorcycle’s headlight or taillight out of the car lights around it
is not easy for other drivers. To compensate, motorcyclists should—
(1) Reduce Speed. Ride more slowly than you would during the day,
particularly on roads you do not know well. This will increase the
chances of avoiding a hazard.
(2) Increase Distance. Distances are harder to judge at night than
during the day. Eyes rely on shadows and light contrasts to determine
how far away an object is and how fast it is coming. These contrasts are
missing or distorted under artificial lights at night. Open up a
“3-second following” distance and allow more distance to pass and be
passed.
(3) Use the Car Ahead. The headlights of the car ahead can give a
better view of the road than the motorcycle’s high beam. Taillights
bouncing up and down on the car ahead can alert you to bumps or rough
pavement ahead.
(4) Use the High Beam. Use the high beam whenever you are not
following or approaching a car from the opposite direction. Wear
reflective materials.
(5) Be Flexible About Lane Position. Change to whatever portion of
the lane that best helps you to see, be seen, and keep a safe distance
from other vehicles. Wear reflective clothing to increase visibility.
40. CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS
When operating a motorcycle, the motorcyclist should always wear
protective clothing. The best possible protective clothing is a colorful
leather jacket, pants, leather boots, leather gloves, and an approved
helmet (American National Standards Institute standard Z90-1 or the
Economic Commission for Europe Norm 22). Colorful protective clothing
can be seen better, reduces health hazards, reduces risk of impaired
driving fitness because of bad weather, and reduces the seriousness of
injuries in an accident.
41. SECURITY
Motorcyclists should always keep their motorcycles properly locked to
keep them from being stolen or used by unauthorized personnel. The best
way to protect a motorcycle from unauthorized use is to make certain the
handlebar-locking device is locked and the key is removed from the
ignition.
43. REMINDER
Motorcyclists are especially at risk in traffic, motorcycle speed is
often underestimated, motorcyclists are often unnoticed by other
drivers, and motorcyclists are directly exposed to external influences.
Always remember to drive defensively.
(1) Learn the international road signs to pass the drivers test.
(2) Obey the signs. To drive safely and legally in Germany, drivers
must be able to recognize the signs and respond to them correctly and
quickly. Five types of road signs are used on European highways:
(a) Danger/warning signs: triangular signs with red rims.
(b) Prohibitory signs: round signs with red rims.
(c) Mandatory signs: round signs with a blue background.
(d) Informative signs: rectangular signs with a blue background.
(e) Signs indicating points of interest (historical buildings or
famous landmarks): rectangular signs with a brown background.
b. AE Poster 190-34-12
is a pocket-size international road sign chart. Drivers should keep
this card in the POV for quick reference. Drivers who pass the test will
receive a copy of this poster.
B-2. DRIVING OUTSIDE GERMANY
International road signs vary from country to country. When driving
outside Germany, drivers should not expect to see exactly the same signs
shown in this appendix. Before driving outside Germany—especially to a
country some distance away (for example, Finland, Spain)—a driver should
obtain a travel booklet for the country that will be visited and study
that country’s road signs.
NOTE: The numbers above the road signs are used
in the German traffic code to identify the signs. Traffic tickets for
violations committed on German roads use these numbers to refer to
traffic signs related to the violation.
Beware of Ice. Indicates that areas ahead freeze easily (for example, bridges, shaded or wooded areas).
Slippery Road. Indicates stretches of road that may be slippery when wet or dirty.
Falling Rocks. Indicates stretches of road where there is danger of falling rocks.
Loose Gravel. Indicates a stretch of road that has loose surface material. Reduce speed and increase distance from the vehicle in front.
124
125
128
129
Traffic Jam Ahead. Indicates that a traffic jam (Stau) may be ahead.
Oncoming Traffic. Posted where oncoming traffic is not
expected (for example, at construction sites on autobahns and comparable
multilane roads, or when one-way streets end and beyond the
intersection is regular two-way traffic.
Drawbridge. Indicates a drawbridge ahead.
Quay or River Bank. Posted near areas where there is danger of vehicles leaving the road and entering a body of water.
Unguarded Railroad Crossing. Posted 240 meters before an unguarded railroad crossing on top of the marker with three stripes (sign 156).
Distance to Guarded Railroad Crossing.
Indicates a crossing separated from the road by a barrier. Posted 240
meters before a guarded railroad crossing. Each diagonal red stripe
represents 80 meters.
Distance to Unguarded Railroad Crossing. Indicates a crossing not separated from the road by a barrier. Posted 240 meters before an unguarded railroad crossing.
Distance to Railroad Crossing. Posted before a railroad crossing and used with signs 153 and 156.
The sign on the right with two diagonal red stripes is posted 160
meters before the crossing; the sign on the left with one diagonal red
stripe is posted 80 meters before the crossing.
Railroad Crossing (St. Andrew’s Cross). Posted at railroad
crossings and is the mandatory stop point when the barriers are closed
or a train is approaching. A flashing red light with this sign means a
train is approaching and you must stop.
Railroad Crossing (St Andrew’s Cross). Posted at railroad crossings. Variation of sign on the left.
Yield Right-of-Way.
Indicates driver must yield to traffic on the upcoming priority road.
If necessary, come to a complete stop to allow traffic on the priority
road to clear before proceeding.
Priority Road Ahead. Indicates that traffic on the priority
road (indicated by the wide, curved black line) has the right-of-way.
Drivers must yield to traffic following and leaving the priority road.
Stop. Indicates driver must come to a complete stop before proceeding.
Yield to Oncoming Traffic.
Indicates that oncoming traffic (black arrow) has the right-of-way.
Traffic traveling in the direction of the red arrow must yield to
oncoming traffic.
Mandatory Direction of Travel. Indicates that traffic must turn left ahead.
Mandatory Direction of Travel. Indicates that traffic must turn right ahead.
209-30
211-20
214-20
215
Mandatory Direction of Travel. Indicates that traffic must proceed straight ahead. No turns are permitted.
Mandatory Direction of Travel. Indicates that traffic must turn right.
Mandatory Direction of Travel. Indicates that traffic may proceed straight ahead or turn right, but may not turn left.
Traffic Circle.
Indicates entrance to a traffic circle. Traffic in the circle has the
right-of-way. Directional signals are not required when entering, but
must be used when exiting the circle.
One-Way Street. Indicates that traffic may proceed only in
the direction of the arrow. Backing up and making U-turns on one-way
streets are prohibited.
Mandatory Direction of Travel.
Posted before barriers and traffic islands, this sign indicates the
direction in which traffic must proceed. Drivers must pass the obstacle
on the side indicated by the arrow.
Bus and Streetcar Stop.
Posted at official stopping places for buses and streetcars. This sign
will specify (with a picture) whether the stop is for buses or
streetcars. Parking or stopping within 15 meters of this sign is
prohibited.
Taxi Parking Only. Indicates area reserved for taxis.
Bicycles Only. Indicates paths restricted to and mandatory for bicycles.
Bridle Path. Indicates that the path is restricted to and mandatory for horseback riders.
Pedestrians Only. Indicates areas restricted to and mandatory for pedestrians.
Jointly Used Paths for Pedestrians and Bicyclists.
Indicates paths restricted to and mandatory for both bicycles and
pedestrians. These areas are shared by bicyclists and pedestrians, not
separated with lines for each.
Separated Bicycle and Pedestrian Paths, Restricted Speed Area.
Posted to mark paths restricted to and mandatory for bicycles and
pedestrians. These areas are separated, as shown by the line; bicycles
are required to use one side, pedestrians the other.
Pedestrian Zone. Indicates an area where only pedestrians are permitted.
End of Pedestrian Zone. Indicates the end of a pedestrian zone.
Bus Lane. Indicates a road restricted to buses.
250
251
253
255
Road Closed/Entry Prohibited. Prohibits entry for all types of vehicles. A sign reading Anlieger frei posted underneath the disk means that entry is permitted only to people who reside or have business on the street.
Motor Vehicles Prohibition. Prohibits entry for all motor vehicles other than motorcycles.
Maximum Weight Allowed. Prohibits trucks that exceed the 3.5-ton-authorized loaded weight limit. Position ahead of narrow road residential areas.
Motorcycles Prohibited. Prohibits entry for motorcycles with or without sidecar, mopeds, or motor-assisted cycles.
262
263
264
265
Maximum Weight Allowed. Indicates the maximum gross vehicle weight, in tons, permitted to proceed beyond this sign. Posted before bridges.
Axle Weight Prohibition. Prohibits vehicles with an axle
weight in excess of the weight specified on the sign. Posted before dirt
roads with soft surfaces.
Maximum Width Allowed. Posted
before narrow places in the road (for example, bridges, tunnels);
indicates the maximum vehicle width, in meters, of vehicles that may
pass through the area.
Maximum Height Allowed. Posted
before low-clearance structures (for example, bridges, overpasses);
indicates the vehicle maximum height, in meters, of vehicles that may
pass under the structure.
Maximum Length Allowed. Prohibits trucks that exceed the maximum length allowance indicated on the sign.
Entry Prohibited.
Prohibits entry for all types of vehicles. Posted at the end of one-way
streets to prevent entry of vehicles from the wrong direction.
Snow Chains Mandatory. Posted where snow chains are
required. When snow chains are on the wheels, the vehicle speed limit is
50 kilometers per hour (kph) (31 miles per hour (mph)).
Pollutant Prohibition. Prohibits vehicles carrying water pollutants beyond this sign.
No U-Turns. Indicates that U-turns are not allowed at the intersection.
Minimum Following Distance. Prohibits vehicles of over 3.5
tons (except cars and buses) to follow similar vehicles closer than the
distance indicated on the sign.
Speed Limit. Indicates the maximum speed allowed.
Speed-Limit Restricted Area. Posted in areas where the maximum speed permitted is shown in the circle on the sign.
End of Speed-Limit Restricted Area. Indicates the end of the speed limit shown in the circle on the sign (sign 274.1).
Minimum Speed Zone.
Requires speed no less than that shown on the sign, unless road and
traffic conditions, weather, or visibility make it necessary to drive
more slowly.
No Passing. Prohibits passing motor vehicles other than two-wheeled vehicles (bicycles and motorcycles).
No Passing.
Prohibits trucks with a gross weight of over 3.5 tons and trucks or
tractors pulling trailers to pass vehicles, except for two-wheeled
vehicles.
End of Restrictions. End of all previous restrictions (for example, speed, no passing).
No Stopping. Indicates drivers may not stop.
Restricted Stopping. Indicates a spot where drivers may not stop for longer than 3 minutes and must stay in the vehicle during that time.
Restricted Stopping Zone. Indicates
a zone where drivers may not stop for longer than 3 minutes and must
stay in the vehicle during that time. This applies in the whole area
until sign 292 ends this zone.
Blue Parking Disc. This blue parking disc, indicating the
driver’s arrival time, must be placed on the dashboard when parking in
designated areas. Drivers must adjust the parking disc to the first
half- or full-hour mark that follows their arrival time.
End of Restricted Stopping Zone. Indicates the end of a restricted stopping zone (see sign 290).
Pedestrian Crosswalk.
Painted over a crosswalk. If a traffic island is in the middle of the
crosswalk, the stripes on either side of the island are separate
crosswalks. Stopping or parking on or within 5 meters of a pedestrian
crosswalk is prohibited.
Solid White Line. Prohibits
traffic from passing on either side of the solid white line. Vehicles
must not cross the solid white line, nor is it authorized for
motorcyclists to lean over the line. Where a solid white line is used to
mark the edge of the road, it is prohibited to stop or park on the left
side of the line.
Solid and Broken White Line. Indicates that passing is
allowed for drivers on the side of the broken line and prohibited for
drivers on the side of the solid line.
Directional Arrows.
Painted on the road in front of an intersection to warn drivers to
position their vehicles in the correct lane. If the arrows are between
solid white lines (marked traffic lanes), the direction indicated must
be followed once in the lane. Stopping or parking in a lane marked with
arrows between solid white lines is prohibited.
Arrow on Pavement. Indicates the end or beginning of authorized passing.
Off-Limits Markings.
Indicates (by the striped area) a decrease or increase in the number of
lanes. The warning area may not be driven in or touched by vehicle
wheels.
No Parking/No Stopping. Painted on the road in a zigzag
pattern to indicate areas where parking or stopping is prohibited.
Together with a bus stop sign, it prohibits parking within 15 meters of
either side of the sign. At the exit of fire stations, it prohibits
stopping.
Priority Road. Indicates that traffic on this
road has the right-of-way only at the next intersection. Signs are
placed immediately before intersections in city limits and approximately
150 to 250 meters before intersections outside city limits.
Priority Road. Posted at the beginning of a priority road and repeated at every intersection or junction. Gives priority until sign 205, 206, or 307 is posted.
Turning Priority Road. Indicates that traffic following or leaving the priority road (indicated by the black curved line) has the right of way.
End of Priority Road. Indicates the end of the priority road and the end of right-of-way (sign 306).
Oncoming Traffic Must Wait. Indicates that oncoming traffic (red arrow) must yield to traffic traveling in the opposite direction (white arrow).
City Limits.
Posted at the beginning of town or city limits. At this point, speed
must be reduced to 50 kph (31 mph). This sign indicates the name of the
town or city.
End of City Limits. Indicates the end of the town or city. The 50 kph speed limit ends here.
End of City Limits. Indicates the end of the town or city and the distance to the next town or city.
Parking Area. Indicates an official parking area.
Parking on Curb Permitted.
Posted where parking on the curb is allowed within the white pavement
markers. The sign applies only to vehicles up to 3.5 tons authorized
loaded weight.
Park-and-Ride Area. Indicates areas where vehicles may be parked and public transportation is available.
Parking for Hikers. Indicates areas where hikers may park their vehicles and begin their hike.
Traffic-Controlled Residential Area.
Posted on or before streets on which pedestrians and playing children
have priority. Motor vehicles must yield to pedestrians and children
playing on this street.
End of Traffic-Controlled Residential Area. Indicates the end of the traffic-controlled residential area (sign 325). Vehicles leaving these areas must yield to all traffic.
Autobahn.
Indicates the beginning of an autobahn. From this point on, all rules
and regulations governing the autobahn must be obeyed. Hitchhiking
beyond this point is prohibited.
Motor Vehicles Only. Posted at intersections, along the road,
and at entrances to roads restricted to motor vehicles. Permits only
motor vehicles capable of maintaining speeds of 60 kph or more. All
other motor vehicles (for example, bicycles, animal-drawn vehicles) are
prohibited on these roads.
Autobahn Exit. Posted at autobahn exits. Exits marked by this sign are the only authorized exits from the autobahn.
End of Autobahn. Posted just before the end of the autobahn. This sign may indicate the distance in meters to the end of the autobahn (see sign 330).
End of Restriction. Posted where the restrictions required by sign 331 end.
Broken White Line. Used to mark traffic lanes or the center of the road. The broken line may be crossed only if passing can be done safely.
Pedestrian Crosswalk. Indicates pedestrians on or entering the crosswalk have the right-of-way.
One-Way Traffic. Indicates a one-way street.
Water-Protection Area.
Identifies a water-protection area. Drivers will not release
contaminants (for example, oil) in or near areas where this sign is
posted (for example, near lakes or streams).
Autobahn Hotel. Indicates that an autobahn hotel is ahead.
Autobahn Restaurant. Indicates that an autobahn restaurant is ahead.
Autobahn Snack Machines. Indicates that an autobahn snack machine is ahead.
Recommended Speed.
Posted only on autobahns, this sign recommends that drivers not exceed
the speed limit on the sign, if the driver has favorable road, traffic,
visibility, and weather conditions.
385
386-50
388
392
Place Name. Indicates the name of the place, unless sign 310 is posted. This sign also is used to mark rivers and war cemeteries.
Points of Interest. Indicates historical sights or scenic views. These signs are always posted alone and are never attached to other traffic signs.
Soft Shoulder.
Warns motorists that the shoulder of the road is not reinforced and may
not be used. If the symbol of a truck is shown on the sign, the sign
applies only to trucks with a gross weight of 3.5 tons or more.
Customs Control. Indicates customs-control offices at border crossings.
Information Panel. Posted at country borders. Indicates the speed limit inside city limits, outside city limits, and on the autobahn.
Streetlight Marking.
Painted on streetlights that are turned off at night. Vehicles parked
under a streetlight with this marking must have parking lights on.
Federal Highway Marker.
Indicates the number of the German Federal highway on which it appears.
This sign, which is posted along all German Federal highways, does not
establish priority.
Autobahn Junction. Indicates the number of the autobahn exit or autobahn junction (including three-way junctions).
European Highway Marker. Posted as a route marker for European highways.
Truck Route. Indicates the direction trucks must take.
Direction to Autobahn. Shows the direction to the nearest autobahn entrance and the name of the nearest city at which point the autobahn ends.
Direction Marker. Indicates the direction to places in a town. This example shows the direction to the train station.
434
440
442
448.1
Direction Marker. Indicates the direction and route number, if applicable, of the towns shown on the sign.
Direction to Autobahn. Posted before entrances to autobahns, this sign indicates the direction and route numbers to the next cities.
Bicycle Route. Indicates the direction cyclists must take.
Autohof. Indicates that there is a 24-hour operated service area off the autobahn.
449
450
454
458
Autobahn Direction Sign. Shows the distance to the next exit
for the towns listed. The top of the sign shows the route number
drivers will enter at the exit and the next major city that can be
reached on that route. Below that, the sign shows the first two towns or
cities that can be reached on this route, with the closest town shown
at the bottom.
Distance to the Next Exit. Indicates the
distance to the next road exit. Each diagonal white stripe indicates 100
meters. In this example, the distance is 300 meters.
Detour. Indicates that traffic must travel in the direction indicated by the sign.
Bypass Routing. Indicates a diversion in the road ahead.
460
466
467
500
Autobahn Detour. Posted on routes where traffic is detoured off the autobahn.
Detour Route Marker. Indicates the route, in solid black lines, to take to get back on the autobahn after having been detoured.
Orange Traffic Arrow. Recommended direction of travel during heavy traffic or traffic jams.
Change of Traffic Lanes.
Shows the distance to the point on the autobahn where drivers must
cross to the other side of the dividing strip (for example, construction
sites). Yellow road markings have priority over white markings at
construction sites.
1006-32
1006-34
1008-30
1010-10
;
Gravel. This supplemental sign is posted with a primary sign
(usually a speed-limit sign) to indicate that loose surface material
may be on the road. When this sign appears, drivers must reduce speed
and keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
Road Damage. Posted where the next stretch of road is damaged.
Right-of-Way Changed. This supplemental sign indicates that the right-of-way has changed from what is posted.
Children Playing. Indicates that children may be playing on the road. This sign is used with sign 267 or 357 to indicate that children are permitted to play in the street.
Residents Only. This supplemental sign indicates only residents and their visitors should be driving on this street.
When Wet.
This supplemental sign is posted where wet conditions are a particular
hazard. Instructions on the primary sign must be obeyed only when the
road is wet.
No Stopping on Shoulder. Prohibits stopping on the road or shoulder where this sign is posted.
NATO Vehicles.
Indicates the maximum weight (in tons) of NATO vehicles allowed to
cross a bridge when two vehicles are crossing at the same time.
Speed and Distance Sign. This sign is normally posted near a
construction area to indicate a slower speed and the minimum distance
to keep between vehicles.
Secondary Route. This supplemental sign indicates the route to use when a detour exists.
Traffic Jam. This sign warns of an upcoming traffic jam (Stau). STAU may appear on a number of backgrounds (for example, on the back of a police car, on a banner draped over a bridge).
Question (reference the applicable portions of this pamphlet)
1.
For registration purposes, the
insurance policy cannot substitute for the insurance confirmation card
as proof of automobile insurance under German law and U.S. Forces
regulations. (para 33e(3))
a. True. b. False.
2.
License plates issued to drivers by the Registry of Motor Vehicles automatically become the driver’s property. (para 33c(1)(a))
a. True. b. False.
3.
The driver of a registered
motor vehicle is required to observe which of the following with respect
to U.S. Forces POV license plates? (paras 33c(1)(d) and 33c(2)(b))
a. License plates will not be altered. b. The rear license plate must be illuminated. c. License plates always must be firmly attached with bolts and screws. d. All of the above.
4.
A driver who lends his or her
vehicle to a member of the U.S. Forces is required to provide the
borrower with the registration certificate (AE Form 190-1A). (para 33g(2)(a))
a. True. b. False.
5.
U.S. Forces regulations do not prohibit abandoning a privately owned vehicle (POV). (paras 33f(2) and 33h(4))
a. True. b. False.
6.
Attaching old State license plates or signs to U.S. Forces POV plates is permitted. (para 33c(2)(e))
a. True. b. False.
7.
The Traffic Point System applies to military personnel and civilian employees, but does not apply to Family members. (para 17)
a. True. b. False.
8.
Persons declared ineligible for a U.S. Forces certificate of
license will remain ineligible until they successfully petition the
revoking authority for reinstatement of their eligibility. (para 16a(5))
a. True. b. False.
9.
German police are empowered to
arrest U.S. personnel (including Family members and U.S. civilians
serving with the U.S. Forces) when German laws are violated. (para 14)
a. True. b. False.
10.
German police do not have the authority to require U.S. Forces drivers to pay a warning fee for minor traffic violations. (paras 9b(2) and 13c(1))
a. True. b. False.
11.
German traffic law does not
require every user of a public road or highway to conduct himself or
herself so that no other user is endangered, injured, unnecessarily
impeded, or inconvenienced. (para 11)
a. True. b. False.
12.
A POV may not be rejected
during mechanical inspection because of bent hoods, torn fenders,
altered plates, or faulty body trimmings. (para 32b)
a. True. b. False.
13.
Vehicles are considered unsafe if the tires have less than 1.6 millimeters of tread on any portion of the traction surface. (para 29a)
a. True. b. False.
14.
If a vehicle is equipped with radial tires, the tires should be mounted on which of the following? (para 29b)
a. Only on the front wheels of the POV. b. Only on the rear wheels of the POV. c. On all four wheels. d. On the drive wheels of the POV.
15.
Avoidable noises such as honking horns and racing engines are prohibited by the German traffic ordinance. (para 11c)
a. True. b. False.
16.
Kilometers may be converted to miles by multiplying the kilometers by 6 and then dropping the last digit. (para 18b)
a. True. b. False.
17.
Children under 12 years old
are not allowed to sit in the front seat of a vehicle unless the rear
seat is already occupied by children of that age group. (para 25c)
a. True. b. False.
18.
Drivers are not always required to indicate their intention to pass by using directional signals. (paras 20b(5)(c) and 20c(4))
a. True. b. False.
19.
What may cause danger to others in road traffic? (para 11d)
a. A disabled POV with warning devices not placed at a sufficient distance. b. Driving a POV while intoxicated. c. Driving a POV while fatigued. d. All of the above.
20.
What should be considered when choosing a safe distance from the vehicle ahead? (para 19p)
a. Condition of the highway and driving speed. b. Average distance being used by other drivers. c. Both of the above.
21.
When approaching children, drivers must try to anticipate their behavior. (para 10)
a. True. b. False.
22.
The proper technique for driving around a curve is to slow down before the curve and accelerate toward the end of the curve. (para 18a(1))
a. True. b. False.
23.
If the vehicle starts skidding while braking, the driver should do which of the following? (para 18a(6))
a. Downshift and take foot off gas pedal. b. Turn the steering wheel in the direction that the rear of the vehicle is skidding and pump the brakes lightly. c. Immediately apply pressure to brakes.
24.
Fast driving often leads to accidents in which of the following situations? (para18a(1))
a. At points where vision is restricted. b. At pedestrian crossings. c. At intersections and junctions. d. All of the above.
25.
Drivers caught in a heavy downpour with limited visibility should pull off the road and wait for the rain to let up. (para 18a(4))
a. True. b. False.
26.
Drivers who suddenly find
themselves on an icy patch of road should continue driving with no
abrupt change in direction, speed, or braking. (para 18a(5)(b))
a. True. b. False.
27.
Drivers must be especially
careful when passing during twilight hours; they must be alert to
vehicles without lights coming from the other direction. (para 20b(8))
a. True. b. False.
28.
When passing another vehicle,
drivers must return to the right lane as soon as possible without
impeding the vehicle being passed. (para 20b(5)(d))
a. True. b. False.
29.
When approaching an
intersection with directional arrows painted on the pavement, the driver
will enter the appropriate lane and do which of the following? (para 20a(2))
a. Follow the direction of the arrow. b. Change lanes in the intersection. c. Both of the above.
30.
A continuous, solid, white center line on the road may not be crossed or even touched by the wheels of the driver’s vehicle. (para 20b(1)(a))
a. True. b. False.
31.
When a broken white line and a solid white center line appear together, traffic on the broken-line side is permitted to pass. (para 20b(2)(b))
a. True. b. False.
32.
Directional arrows on the pavement must be followed once the driver has entered a lane that is so marked. (para 20a(2))
a. True. b. False.
33.
Unless otherwise posted, a
speed limit of 100 kilometers per hour (kph) (62 miles per hour (mph))
applies to all vehicles on all highways and roads in Germany. (paras 18d, 18e, and 18f)
a. True. b. False.
34.
Under certain circumstances, the maximum speed posted may be too fast for road and traffic conditions. (para 18i)
a. True. b. False.
35.
Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit within city limits is 60 kph (37 mph). (para 18d)
a. True. b. False.
36.
How many times greater is the force of collision if the driving speed is doubled? (para 18j)
a. Twice as great. b. Three times as great. c. Four times as great.
37.
Minimum speed limits must be obeyed according to which of the following? (para 18h)
a. Except where road or traffic conditions make drivers drive more slowly. b. Except when visibility or weather conditions make drivers drive more slowly. c. Both of the above.
38.
When traveling on multilane
roads with dense traffic, it is illegal for vehicles in the right lane
to go faster than those in the left lane. (paras 20b(4)(b) and 20b(7))
a. True. b. False.
39.
A slow vehicle is being
followed by several other vehicles that cannot pass because of the
traffic. On reaching a suitable place (such as a wide place in the
roadway), the driver of the slow vehicle should pull to the right to
allow the other vehicles to pass. (para 20b(11))
a. True. b. False.
40.
What must a driver do when approaching a round blue sign with a white number 30 on it? (sign 275)
a. Stay off this road if driving a vehicle that can move only at a speed of less than 30 kph (20 mph). b. Not exceed 30 kph. c. Not drive at less than 30 kph, weather conditions and traffic permitting. d. Both a and c above.
41.
When passing, drivers must return to the right as soon as possible without impeding the vehicle being passed. (para 20b(5)(d))
a. True. b. False.
42.
Drivers may exceed the posted speed limit while passing another vehicle. (para 20b(3))
a. True. b. False.
43.
Drivers may not increase their speed while being passed. (para 20b(10))
a. True. b. False.
44.
Drivers may pass a streetcar on the left when the road is a one-way street. (para 20b(4)(a))
a. True. b. False.
45.
Two-wheeled vehicles are particularly dangerous to pass and should be passed only with side clearance of at least 1.5 meters. (para 30b(1))
a. True. b. False.
46.
When is passing another vehicle prohibited? (para 20b(1)(c))
a. When the traffic situation is unclear. b. When there is a broken center line. c. When passing can be accomplished without exceeding the speed limit.
47.
At unmarked intersections, vehicles coming from the right have the right-of-way. (para 19b)
a. True. b. False.
48.
In the city where no priority signs are posted, the driver on the widest street has the right-of-way. (para 19b)
a. True. b. False.
49.
The “right-before-left” rule applies at unmarked intersections. (para 19b)
a. True. b. False.
50.
A driver wants to leave a
private driveway and turn right onto a public road. At the same time, a
cyclist is approaching from the left. Who has to wait? (para 19c(2))
a. The cyclist. b. The driver of the motor vehicle.
51.
A driver who disregards the safety of others is excused legally from responsibility when he or she has the right-of-way. (paras 10 and 19m)
a. True. b. False.
52.
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19)
a. 1-2-3. b. 2-1-3. c. 3-1-2.
53.
What does the driver of vehicle 2 have to do? (para 19)
a. Observe the right-of-way of vehicle 1. b. Proceed without stopping. c. Observe the right-of-way of vehicle 3.
54.
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19)
a. 1-2-3. b. 2-1-3. c. 3-2-1.
55.
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19)
a. 3-2-1. b. 3-1-2. c. 2-3-1.
56.
When a driver is traveling in the direction of the white arrow, what must the driver do when faced with oncoming traffic? (sign 308)
a. Yield the right-of-way. b. Proceed. c. Flash the headlights and proceed.
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (paras 19a and 20a(3), and signs 205 and 306)
a. 1-2-3. b. 1-3-2. c. 2-1-3.
76.
The
driver of vehicle 1 wants to turn left. To do so, the driver must pull
up to the middle of the intersection in front of vehicle 2 and then
allow vehicle 3 to pass in front of her. (paras 19b and 20a(3))
U-turns are prohibited on autobahns. (paras 21i(1) and 30d)
a. True. b. False.
83.
The turn indicator must be used for all turns and to warn other traffic of the driver’s intention to do which of the following? (para 24f)
a. Pass another vehicle or change lanes of traffic. b. Pull away from a curb or parked position. c. Leave a traffic circle. d. All of the above.
84.
When a streetcar comes up
behind a driver’s vehicle while the driver is waiting to make a left
turn, the driver must do which of the following? (para 20a(3)(d))
a. Move to the next block or to some point where a left turn can be made without holding up the streetcar. b. Maintain his or her position, because the streetcar does not have the right-of-way. c. Wait until oncoming traffic is clear and then make the turn.
85.
A driver on the right-hand side of the road who wants to turn left should do which of the following? (para 20a(3))
a. Move next to the center line, watch traffic to the rear, and give a directional signal. b. Watch traffic to the rear, give a directional signal, and move next to the center line. c. Give a directional signal, move to the center, and watch traffic to the rear.
86.
Which vehicle must give a directional signal? (paras 19g(4) and 20a(3))
a. Vehicle 2. b. Vehicles 2 and 3. c. Vehicles 1 and 3.
87.
Whose position is incorrect for the left turn? (para 20a(3))
a. Vehicle 1. b. Vehicle 2. c. Vehicles 1 and 3.
88.
Which position is correct for a left turn? (para 20a(3))
a. Vehicle 1. b. Vehicle 2. c. Vehicle 3.
89.
A vehicle is considered to be
parked when the driver leaves the vehicle or the vehicle has been
stopped for longer than which of the following? (para 23d)
a. 2 minutes. b. 3 minutes. c. 5 minutes.
90.
On which streets is parking on the left permitted? (para 23a)
a. On one-way streets and on streets that have streetcar tracks that do not permit parking on the right side. b. On two-way streets. c. On country roads.
91.
Outside city limits, the
minimum distance for parking cars from a warning cross indicating a
railroad crossing is 50 meters (165 feet). (para 23e(8))
a. True. b. False.
92.
What is the minimum distance to park cars from marked or unmarked junctions or pedestrian crosswalks? (para 23e(5))
a. 5 meters. b. 10 meters. c. 50 meters.
93.
Stopping is prohibited at which of the following? (paras 21i(2) and 23a)
a. On the autobahn. b. On either side of a one-way street. c. Both of the above.
94.
Parking is prohibited at which of the following? (para 23e and signs 229, 283, and 286)
a. In front of a private driveway or an entrance. b. At taxi stands. c. Wherever official signs expressly forbid it. d. All of the above.
95.
How close to a public transportation stop is stopping or parking allowed? (para 23e(6))
a. 15 meters (45 feet). b. 5 meters (15 feet). c. 2 meters (6 feet).
96.
Drivers may park beside a traffic island as long as their parking lights are on. (para 23e(9))
a. True. b. False.
97.
POVs may be left unattended and unlocked if no property of value is left in plain view. (para 12)
a. True. b. False.
98.
A driver is required to warn approaching traffic when his or her vehicle is stopped for any reason on any road. (paras 13b(1)(b) and 27b)
a. True. b. False.
99.
At what distance should the warning triangle be placed if a vehicle breaks down on any road other than an autobahn? (paras 13b(1)(b) and 27b)
a. 50 meters (150 feet). b. 100 meters (300 feet). c. 150 meters (450 feet).
100.
Emergency warning equipment should be stored where? (para 27a)
a. In the trunk of the car. b. In the passenger compartment under the front seat. c. In the garage or storage area until needed.
101.
If involved in a traffic
accident that is investigated by only German officials, U.S. Forces
drivers are not required to notify the military police or security
forces. (paras 13b(1)(d) and 13d(2))
a. True. b. False.
102.
Under the Good Samaritan Law
in Germany, drivers are required to render first aid to persons injured
in a traffic accident if reasonably possible. (para 28)
a. True. b. False.
103.
A person who is involved in a traffic accident and flees the scene may be prosecuted. (paras 13b(1)(a) and 13b(2)(c))
a. True. b. False.
104.
When are drivers required to switch on headlights? (para 30h(1))
a. At dusk and dawn. b. When weather conditions require it. c. When driving through fog. d. All of the above.
105.
When is the use of fog lights and low-beam headlights permitted in daylight? (para 30h(3))
a. If visibility is reduced by fog or snowfall. b. If visibility is reduced by rain. c. Both of the above.
106.
When are drivers allowed to use only the parking lights while driving? (para 30h(2))
a. At dusk or dawn. b. Not at all. c. When there is adequate street lighting.
107.
Headlights must be dimmed
for oncoming traffic and when following another driver to reduce the
glare in his or her rearview mirror. (para 30h(4))
a. True. b. False.
108.
When either nighttime or
daytime visibility is substantially reduced by fog, rain, or snowfall,
use of low-beam headlights is required. (para 30h(1))
a. True. b. False.
109.
What is the minimum speed a vehicle must be able to maintain on the autobahn? (para 21a)
a. 50 kph (31 mph). b. 60 kph (37 mph). c. 80 kph (50 mph).
110.
If a vehicle breaks down on the autobahn, help can be obtained by which of the following? (para 21g)
a. Calling the nearest autobahn gas station. b. Flagging down another driver. c. Using one of the telephone boxes located at regular intervals along the autobahn.
111.
How long may a driver remain in the passing lane while traveling at a high rate of speed? (para 21d)
a. Only as long as necessary to pass other vehicles. b. Until the vehicle ahead completes its passing maneuver. c. As long as there is no driver behind flashing lights to move ahead. d. Both a and b above.
112.
Stopping (except in emergencies or in designated parking areas), making U-turns, and backing up are prohibited on autobahns. (para 21i)
a. True. b. False.
113.
If a driver misses an autobahn exit, the driver must drive to the next exit and use the overpass or underpass. (para 21c)
a. True. b. False.
114.
Which parts of the autobahn are particularly prone to becoming ice hazards? (para 18a(5)(a))
a. Bridges. b. Stretches leading through forests. c. Both of the above.
115.
Drivers who run out of gas on the autobahn may be fined for stopping on the autobahn. (para 21i(3))
a. True. b. False.
116.
When vehicles are halted at railroad crossings at night waiting for a train to pass, drivers must turn on high-beam headlights. (para 22g)
a. True. b. False.
117.
What must a driver do when passing a streetcar that has stopped to take on and let off passengers on the roadway? (para 23b)
a. Wait until the streetcar proceeds. b. Pass at a moderate speed and at such a distance that boarding and unboarding passengers are not bothered. c. Stop and proceed only after the streetcar doors are closed and the roadway is clear of pedestrians.
118.
What must a driver do when approaching a railroad crossing without a warning cross? (para 22c)
a. Approach with caution and look both directions for approaching trains. b. Be alert for whistles, bells, or other sounds that indicate an approaching train. c. Both of the above.
119.
When are drivers required to wait at a railroad crossing? (para 22a)
a. When there is a flashing red light. b. When a train has just passed. c. When there is more than one track.
120.
When may drivers cross the tracks of an unguarded railroad crossing marked by a flashing light when a train has just passed? (para 22a)
a. As soon as the train clears the crossing. b. When the flashing red light goes out. c. When the flashing green light goes on.
121.
What must a driver do when approaching a railroad crossing where the barriers are open? (para 22c)
a. Approach at a moderate speed and observe the tracks to the right and left. b. Proceed without slowing down. c. Come to a complete stop, look to the left and right of the tracks, then continue to drive.
122.
In a housing area controlled by the U.S. Forces, what are
drivers required to do when approaching a school bus that has come to a
stop? (para 20b(6)(b))
a. Slow down and pass with caution. b. Stop, regardless of whether or not approaching or following the bus, and do not continue until the bus begins to move again. c. Stop only if the bus is on the driver’s side of the road.
123.
When a streetcar has stopped
at a pedestrian island, drivers must watch out for passengers getting
on and off, but may proceed carefully on the right. (para 23b)
a. True. b. False.
124.
Passing a vehicle at a railroad crossing is illegal. (para 20b(1)(e))
a. True. b. False.
125.
If a vehicle breaks down on the autobahn, the vehicle may be towed to the which of the following? (para 30j)
a. The next gas station on the autobahn. b. The next autobahn exit. c. The original destination on the autobahn, provided a tow bar is used. d. All of the above.
126.
Under what conditions may drivers pass other vehicles at zebra crossings? (para 20a(5)(b))
a. If the crossing is hard to see. b. If there are no pedestrians waiting to cross. c. None. Drivers must not pass other vehicles at zebra crossings.
127.
When a driver sees a
pedestrian wearing a yellow armband marked with three black dots
attempting to cross the street, the driver must do which of the
following? (para 20a(5)(c))
a. Slow down and stop if necessary to allow the pedestrian to cross. b. Proceed if the pedestrian is accompanied by another person or a guide dog. c. Both of the above.
128.
Which vehicle or vehicles must stop? (para 20a(5) and signs 293 and 350)
a. Vehicle 1. b. Vehicles 2 and 3. c. Vehicles 1, 2, and 3.
129.
Drivers may not pass cars at a pedestrian crosswalk even if no pedestrian is in sight. (para 20a(5)(b))
a. True. b. False.
130.
The light is green. What must the driver do? (para 20a(4))
a. Wait and permit the pedestrians to cross. b. Urge the pedestrians to hurry by honking the horn. c. Keep moving, because the pedestrians must wait.
131.
The basic rule in observing
hand signals given by German police officers is that traffic parallel to
the outstretched arms of the officer may proceed. (para 30f and figs 1 through 5)
a. True. b. False.
132.
When approaching a congested intersection and the light is green, the driver should do which of the following? (para 30a(5))
a. Proceed across the intersection with caution. b. Stop before the intersection until the intersection is clear. c. Proceed across the intersection, flashing headlights to warn other vehicles.
133.
Which vehicle is allowed to proceed? (para 30f and fig 2)
a. Vehicles 1 and 2. b. Vehicle 3. c. Vehicles 2 and 3.
134.
Which vehicle is allowed to proceed without stopping? (para 30f and fig 5)
a. Vehicle 1. b. Vehicle 2. c. Vehicle 3. d. Vehicles 1, 2, and 3.
135.
Which vehicle must wait? (para 30f and figs 1 and 4)
a. Vehicle 1. b. Vehicle 2. c. Vehicle 3. d. Vehicles 1 and 2.
136.
When a yellow light is flashing at an intersection, the driver must do what? (para 30a(3)(d))
a. Approach cautiously and yield the right-of-way if necessary. b. Wait until the light changes. c. Always stop.
137.
What must the driver do when approaching an intersection and seeing the traffic light turn from green to yellow? (para 30a(2))
a. Proceed. b. Stop at the line. c. Stop at the line if safe to do so.
138.
If the driver of a passenger
vehicle wants to turn left and a streetcar traveling in the same
direction left of the passenger vehicle is proceeding straight ahead,
which vehicle has to wait? (para 20a(3)(d))
a. The streetcar. b. The passenger vehicle.
139.
A police officer controls traffic at an intersection and the traffic lights are in operation. Which signals must drivers obey? (para 30f)
a. The police officer’s. b. The traffic light’s. c. Neither, because the “right-before-left” rule applies in both cases.
a. Vehicles 1 and 2. b. Vehicles 2 and 3. c. Vehicles 1 and 3.
142.
The illustration shows a signal that indicates the driver may proceed in which direction? (para 30a)
a. To the right. b. To the left. c. Straight ahead. d. All of the above.
143.
In this situation, drivers may do what? (para 30a(4)(c))
a. Turn right. b. Proceed straight ahead or wait if turning left. c. Both of the above.
144.
A driver who notices that an
emergency vehicle (for example, ambulance, fire truck, police car) is
approaching should do which of the following? (para 19n)
a. Drive to the extreme right in normal traffic. b.
In bumper-to-bumper traffic on two-lane autobahns, or other multilane
roads, move on slowly, driving to the extreme right in the right-hand
lane and to the extreme left in the left-hand lane to form a passageway
in the middle. c. Both of the above.
145.
What do drivers have to do when a vehicle with flashing lights and a multitone horn approaches? (para 19n)
a. Clear the road immediately. b. Stop immediately. c. Both of the above.
Drunk driving is a felony in Germany and may result in imprisonment for up to 5 years. (para 26a)
a. True. b. False.
148.
What besides alcohol may impair a person’s ability to drive safely? (para 30e)
a. Fatigue. b. Medication. c. Both of the above.
149.
Refusal to undergo a urine or blood alcohol content (BAC) test
when requested to do so by the military police or security forces will
result in revocation of driving privileges. (paras 16c(1)(a) and 26b(4))
a. True. b. False.
150.
If the German police suspect
drivers of driving while intoxicated, they may demand, using force if
necessary, that drivers submit to a urine or BAC test. (para 26c)
a. True. b. False.
151.
When may a horn be honked within city limits? (paras 24a and e)
a. When a pedestrian suddenly steps out onto the roadway. b. When another vehicle suddenly backs into the street from a narrow driveway. c. Both of the above.
152.
During daytime, where is it permitted to use headlights to signal the intention to pass? (paras 24c and d)
a. Outside city limits. b. Within city limits. c. Both of the above.
153.
Inside city limits, drivers may indicate their intention to pass by flashing headlights or sounding the horn. (para 24d)
a. True. b. False.
154.
A driver in the passing lane
of the autobahn must slow down if he or she sees a vehicle approaching
from behind with flashing headlights. (para 20b(9))
(1)
Crossing the white stripe painted across the lane of traffic when
stopping for a red light is forbidden. Drivers may make a right turn
when the light is red if a green arrow is attached to the right of the
main light (shown on the right). Drivers must come to a complete stop
and ensure the road is clear of traffic before making the turn.
; 
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19)
What does the driver of vehicle 2 have to do? (para 19)
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19)
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19)
When a driver is traveling in the direction of the white arrow, what must the driver do when faced with oncoming traffic? (sign 308)
Which vehicle has the right-of-way? (para 19i and sign 205)
Which vehicle has the right-of-way? (para 19i and sign 205)
Which vehicle must yield? (para 19c(1))
Which vehicle must wait? (para 20a(4)(d))
Which vehicle must wait? (para 19k)
When may vehicle 2 turn? (para 20a(3)(d))
What must the driver of vehicle 1 do? (paras 19b and 20a(3))
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (paras 19b and 20a(3))
Which vehicle must wait? (para 19b)
When may vehicle 3 proceed? (para 19d and signs 205 and 301)
Which two vehicles have to wait at these junctions? (para 19b and signs 205 and 301)
What does the driver of vehicle 2 have to do? (para 20a(3) and signs 206 and 301)
What does the driver of vehicle 3 have to do? (para 19g and sign 306)
When may vehicle 1 proceed? (para 19g and signs 306 and 306 with 1002-12)
Which vehicle is the last to go? (paras 20a(3) and (4), and signs 206 and 306)
Which vehicle has the right-of-way? (para 19b and sign 267)
In which order must the vehicles proceed? (paras 19f and g, and signs 306 with 1002-12 and 205 with 1002-21)
Which vehicle has the right-of-way? (para 19g and sign 306 with 1002-12)
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (paras 19a and 20a(3), and signs 205 and 306)
The
driver of vehicle 1 wants to turn left. To do so, the driver must pull
up to the middle of the intersection in front of vehicle 2 and then
allow vehicle 3 to pass in front of her. (paras 19b and 20a(3))
Does vehicle 2 have to wait? (para 19g, sign 205 with 1002-21, and sign 306 with 1002-12)
In which order must the vehicles proceed? (para 20a(3) and signs 205 and 306)
In which order must the vehicles proceed? (para 20a(3) and signs 206 and 306)
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (paras 19g and 20a(3) and signs 205 and 306)
In which order may the vehicles proceed? (para 19g and sign 306 with 1002-12)
Which vehicle must give a directional signal? (paras 19g(4) and 20a(3))
Whose position is incorrect for the left turn? (para 20a(3))
Which position is correct for a left turn? (para 20a(3))
Which vehicle or vehicles must stop? (para 20a(5) and signs 293 and 350)
The light is green. What must the driver do? (para 20a(4))
Which vehicle is allowed to proceed? (para 30f and fig 2)
Which vehicle is allowed to proceed without stopping? (para 30f and fig 5)
Which vehicle must wait? (para 30f and figs 1 and 4)
When a yellow light is flashing at an intersection, the driver must do what? (para 30a(3)(d))
The yellow light is flashing. Which vehicles have to stop? (paras 30a(3)(c) and (d))
Which vehicles may proceed? (para 30f)
The illustration shows a signal that indicates the driver may proceed in which direction? (para 30a)
In this situation, drivers may do what? (para 30a(4)(c))
Which vehicle has to wait? (para 19n)