Revealed distances in quick succession indeed

In the Federal Republic of Germany, the regulations concerning the distance between radar traps and town signs can vary significantly from one state to another. This article aims to provide a clear overview of these differences.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that the permissible maximum speed applies from the town sign, and even a few meters after the town entrance, an excess can result in a fine. The consequences of minor offenses can be significant, including fines, points on the driver's license register, and potential driving bans.

In some states, such as North Rhine-Westphalia, Hamburg, the Saarland, and Baden-Württemberg, there are no fixed numbers for the distance from radar traps to town signs. This means that a radar trap could potentially be placed very close to a town limit. In contrast, other states, like Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saxony-Anhalt, require a minimum distance of 100 meters, while Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania differentiates between 100 meters within town limits and 250 meters on motorways.

The federal states that comply with the 100-meter distance regulation to traffic control signs are primarily Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. However, Bavaria allows for the minimum distance of 200 meters to be undershot in specific local circumstances or if a measurement would not be possible otherwise.

It's important to note that the guidelines on distances are administrative regulations, not laws. Violating these regulations does not automatically invalidate a measurement. Courts have ruled that a driving ban can be waived in cases of minor excesses, even if the distance guidelines were disregarded.

Closer control is permitted in special cases, such as hazardous areas with an increased accident rate, sensitive facilities like schools, kindergartens, or retirement homes, and at speed humps. In Saxony, justified exceptional cases, particularly concerning hazardous areas or speed humps, may allow for closer control.

For excesses of 26 km/h and above, a driving ban can be imposed if another offense of the same magnitude occurs within a year. Excesses of more than 40 km/h result in high fines, two points, and at least one month's driving ban.

It's crucial for drivers to be aware of these variations in distance regulations across German states to ensure they are driving safely and legally. Understanding these regulations can help drivers avoid unnecessary fines and points on their license. Always drive responsibly and within the speed limits to ensure a safe journey.