In Germany what are the rules of the road?

Answer 1

There's a 76 page law about rules on the road (StVO, Strassenverkehrsordnung).

some examples:

Speed limits:

inner city roads, if not signalled otherwise, 50 km/h (30, 60, 70 are possible)

outside built-up areas, if not signalled otherwise, 100 km/h

autobahn, recommended speed 130 km/h, no general speed limit (yeah!), if not signalled otherwise

drinking and driving:

blood alohol levels of

less than 0.03 % no problemo

0.03%-0.05% in case of an accident, joint or full liability

0.05%-0.08% full liability, one month suspension + fee

more than 0.08% several months suspension + fee, or, depending on circumsances revocation of driver's licence (then one needs a medical psychological assessment, driving lessons, ...)

if on bicycle add 0.03% to all of the above.

on crossroads with no traffic signs/lights the driver entering from the right hand side has the right of way, if it's a 4way-junction and 4 cars/bikes/..., mutual consent by hand signal has to found).

in a roundabout the vehicles already in have right of way

a 'standard' driving license permits driving vehicles with at least 3 wheels up to a weight of 3.5 metric tons and scooters etc. with a max velocity of 50 km/h.

a motor vehicle third party liability insurance is mandatory for all motorized vehicles. it covers all expenses in case of accidents (up to several million euros) - but in case of gross negligence or intention they will sue the responsible driver to get the money back.