Written by The German speed limit is a topic of heated discussion. Some argue that speed limit should be set by law for safety reasons, while others oppose this idea. After all, a speed limit would restrict freedom while driving. According to the Road Traffic Regulations (Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung (StVO)), there is no mandatory speed limit for the private cars or motorcycles on the German highways. Although, Germany does not have more accidents than other European countries.
Before we start the theme of the German speed limit, take a look at the brief introduction to the famous German Autobahn.
German Highway System - The Forth Longst On the Earth
The German Autobahn, also German highway system, is a world-famous extending network of freeways throughout Germany, allowing people to reach cities by car in the fastest way. The German Autobahn is the fourth longest highway system after China, the US, and Spain, extending to around 13,200 km in 2023.
German Speed Limit - Real Free Ways!
Inside & Outside Urban Areas
The No-Speed-Limit is only used on the highways. According to the Road Traffic Regulations(StVO), the maximum speed for private cars, motorcycles and other vehicles under 3.5 tonnes is 50 km/h inside urban areas and 100 km/h outside urban areas. However, for lorries over 3.5 tonnes, buses and vehicles with trailers, the maximum speed is 80 km/h outside urban areas and on the highways.
On the Highway
There is no such maximum speed limit regulated by law on the highway. Instead, the recommended speed of 130 km/h is given. As the name suggests, this recommended speed is purely advisory; driving under or over this speed will not result in a fine. However, gross speeding in the event of an accident may constitute contributory negligence.
As for the lorries and the private cars with trailers, the maximum speed on the highways is 80 km/h. If the vehicle owner has obtained permission for the trailer, then a speed of up to 100 km/h is permitted.
Circumstances Alter Cases -- Safety At First
The above situations are all allowed as long as there is no speed limit specified by traffic signs on the highways. There are usually specific speed limit traffic signs at danger zones and roadworks. Drivers should reduce their speed when passing through these zones to prevent accidents.
Although there is no regulated speed limit on Germany’s highways, this does not mean that drivers can drive as fast as they want. The StVO states that anyone driving a vehicle must drive at a speed at which the vehicle is constantly under control. In particular, the speed must be adapted to the road, traffic, visibility, weather conditions, personal abilities, and the characteristics of the vehicle and its load.
In the special weather conditions drivers should pay more attention to the speed. If the visibility is less than 50 meters due to fog, snowfall or rain, the vehicles must not be driven faster than 50 km/h. It is only permitted to drive at a speed that enables the vehicles to stop within the visible distance.
What Are The Penalties for Speeding?
As in other countries, exceeding the speed limit can result in a fine, penalty points and, in some federal states, even a driving ban. If you exceed the speed limit in Germany, you can find the fines here.
With vs. Without Speed Limit?
Whether the speed limit should be set by law is still under discussion. Supporters argue that a speed limit could reduce traffic accidents as well as carbon dioxide emissions by lowering fuel consumption. Opponents think that the environmental benefits would be minimal and that a general speed limit would restrict personal freedom too much.
What is your opinion on the German speed limit? Leave a comment below!
Conclusion
In short, if you’re looking for excitement and freedom while driving, you’ll have an excellent driving experience on a sunny day on German freeways.
