As a driver in Germany, it’s essential to know and follow the traffic rules precisely. Speeding violations, in particular, can have serious consequences, both for your wallet and your driving license. In this article, we will address the topic of “speeding outside built-up areas” and provide you with all the important information you need.
What Does “Speeding Outside Built-Up Areas” Mean?
The term “outside built-up areas” refers to all roads that are not located within built-up areas and are therefore not marked by the corresponding traffic signs (beginning with a town sign and ending with a sign showing the town name crossed out). This includes autobahns, country roads, and even unpaved tracks in open terrain.
If you exceed the permitted maximum speed on these roads, it constitutes a “speeding violation outside built-up areas”.
Why is Speeding Outside Built-Up Areas So Dangerous?
On country roads and autobahns, speeds are significantly higher compared to built-up areas. This carries an increased risk of serious accidents.
“At high speeds, the braking distance increases drastically,” explains Dr. Ing. Markus Schmidt, a traffic expert at the Technical University of Munich. “Furthermore, the driver’s reaction time decreases, and the consequences of an accident are usually more devastating at high speeds.”
Car speeding on a rural road in Germany
What Penalties Apply for Speeding Outside Built-Up Areas?
The penalties for speeding outside built-up areas depend on the extent of the speed violation and whether the offense occurred within or outside a built-up area.
According to the catalog of fines (Bußgeldkatalog), speeding outside built-up areas can result in fines, points in Flensburg, and driving bans.
In particularly severe cases, such as a significant speed violation, a driving ban of several months or even the withdrawal of the driving license may be imposed.
How Can You Avoid Speeding?
There are various ways to avoid speeding:
- Pay Attention to Signage: The permitted maximum speed is always clearly indicated by traffic signs.
- Use Cruise Control: Modern vehicles often have cruise control, which helps you maintain a constant speed.
- Plan Your Journeys Realistically: Allow enough time for your trips so that you don’t feel rushed and are not tempted to speed.
Car using cruise control on a German autobahn
Further Important Information
In addition to the points already mentioned, there is further important information regarding “speeding outside built-up areas”:
- Alcohol and Drugs While Driving: Significantly harsher penalties apply if speeding occurs in conjunction with alcohol or drugs while driving.
- Vehicles with Trailers: Lower speed limits often apply to vehicles with trailers on country roads and autobahns.
- Probationary Period: Stricter rules apply to new drivers during the probationary period in case of speeding violations.
Conclusion
Speeding violations are not minor offenses. They endanger not only yourself but also other road users.
If you have questions about “speeding outside built-up areas” or need help interpreting the catalog of fines, do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to assist you!
Mechanic explaining the German traffic penalty catalog to a driver
Do you need support with your vehicle or have questions about other car-related topics? Feel free to contact us via our website – our experts are ready to assist you!
