Status: 16.01.2024, 14:21 PM
By: Stella Henrich, Kilian Bäuml
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The 20-second rule is intended to improve the flow of traffic on Germany's motorways. That's why every motorist should know them.
Kassel – The 20-second rule is an important part of ensuring a smooth flow of traffic on Germany's motorways. Anyone who travels a lot by car knows that both roads and motorways in Germany are often congested. This causes displeasure among many drivers even before the start of the journey. In addition to the correct speed on motorways, there is a rule that helps especially with less frequented lanes.
The 20-second rule applies on motorways: drivers should be aware of it, because it is not explicitly stated in the StVO. (Screenshot) © Screenshot ADAC Instagram account
This essentially states that drivers are allowed to stay in the middle lane if they cannot drive in the right lane for at least 20 seconds. This is intended to help reduce the number of risky lane changes and driving in serpentine lines.
Safe lane changes on the motorway – that's what the 20-second rule is all about
The automobile club ADAC explains that drivers are allowed to drive continuously in the middle lane on a three-lane road if there are only sporadic vehicles in the right-hand lane. This is an interpretation of the complex legal situation on Germany's motorways according to the Road Traffic Act (StVO §7, paragraph 3c).
The 10-second rule is intended to allow drivers to change lanes more safely. (Symbolic image) © Imago
Despite the general right-hand driving requirement, which is laid down in Section 2, Paragraph 2 of the Road Traffic Act (StVO), this exception applies. The relevant section reads: "Drive as far to the right as possible,..." and is applicable to roads with at least three lanes outside built-up areas.
This means that drivers do not have to immediately switch back to the right-hand lane when the next overtaking manoeuvre is already in sight. However, if the right-hand lane is passable for significantly longer than 20 seconds before the next overtaking manoeuvre, a change to this lane is necessary. The ADAC adds: "For lanes with more than three marked lanes, this applies to the second lane from the right."
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Reasons for the 20-second rule:
- Lane changes are dangerous; the legislator wants to prevent this with the rule
- This is intended to avoid serpentine lines caused by dangerous overtaking manoeuvres on motorways
Despite the 20-second rule – driving in the middle lane of the motorway is only allowed in certain situations
However, anyone who uses the middle lane without authorization and thus endangers other road users must expect a fine of 80 euros and a point in Flensburg. Traffic experts therefore recommend "driving on the right on empty motorways and not swerving too early," says chip.de.
It is important that drivers are aware of these rules so as not to endanger themselves and other road users. Anyone who drives too fast on Austria's roads must expect severe penalties, which can lead to the confiscation of the vehicle. German drivers can also lose their vehicle in the event of a violation.
The editor wrote this article and then used an AI language model for optimization at their own discretion. All information has been carefully verified. Learn more about our AI principles here.