On the autobahn Stretching 6,800 miles across most of Germany, die Autobahn, the motorway, has achieved near legendary status with speed enthusiasts worldwide. One of the main reasons for this is the absence of ein Tempolimit, speed limit. Things are changing, however. Today many Germans are more concerned about environmental issues, especially die Grünen, the German Green Party. They are fighting for the introduction of a speed limit of approximately 100kmh (62.5mph). Indeed many stretches of die Autobahn already have suggested or compulsory speed limits of 130kmh. When stopping on die Autobahn, there are three types of service areas, all marked with their own signs. Firstly, there are die Toiletten, toilet stops. These are abundant and offer a place to park, a toilet and sometimes a phone. You will also find der Rasthof or die Raststätte, service areas, which feature snack bars, convenience stores and die Tankstelle, petrol stations. Some of the bigger ones even have conference rooms, full restaurants, and chapels. For long distance driving, there are der Autohof, truck stops, providing overnight accommodation. Germans drive on the right, and das Überholen, overtaking, is illegal on the right hand side. You must also wear der Sicherheitsgurt, a seatbelt, at all times. Die Autobahnpolizei, motorway police, patrol the motorway and pull cars over regularly for bad driving and traffic violations. Signs on the motorway are white text on blue background and are usually easy to follow. On some of the more amusing ones you'll see a picture of a skier, indicating that winter sports are permitted alongside the roadway, whilst a picture of a frog indicates that migrating frogs may be coming along the road ahead. Links The German Way - a guide to driving. The German Autobahn - a history of the German motorway. These links are included for educational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by the BBC of the products or services featured. |