May 1 brings tighter German traffic rules By Jill Mueller Editor Stuttgart Citizen Drivers with a need for speed had better get some air between their right foot and the gas pedal - or face tough penalties. According to the German Federal Ministry of Traffic, Construction and Housing, the increases take place for speeding in excess of 40 kilometers per hour by a truck, bus or vehicle with trailer or when in excess of more than 50 kilometers per hour with a car or motorcycle. German minister Reinhard Klimmt said through this measure, the few extremely reckless drivers that put themselves and others in danger are held responsible. Owners of a lead foot exceeding the speed limit by 51 or more kilometers per hour will be fined at least 300 marks and will receive a driving prohibition for at least a month. Punishments increase significantly in 10 kilometer per hour increments by hundreds of marks and more months without a license.
Punishments are heavier for drivers of trucks, busses and cars towing trailers.
In addition, the fine for bicycling offenses has been doubled, from 10 to 20 marks. A few especially risky offenses are receiving even tougher fines. Impeding traffic in a bus lane and turning the wrong way into a one-way street where it is specifically forbidden for bicycle riders to do so are such offenses.