A green arrow makes it easier to turn right. But it also leads to confusion for drivers. Do you have to stop or not?
Green means walking, red means standing. Every child probably knows this traffic light wisdom. And the same applies to drivers: If the traffic light is red, you have to wait. Anyone who doesn't comply will receive a fine and, in case of doubt, even have to hand over their driving license. However, there is one exception: the green arrow.
However, this always causes confusion for drivers. More specifically, the rules that apply when the green arrow is visible. Can you continue driving straight away or do you have to stop at the stop line first, like with a stop sign? The confusing answer: both!
Green Arrow or Green Arrow: Different rules apply
As is often the case, it depends on what type of Green Arrow it is. In addition to the metal sign next to the traffic light, there is also a glowing turn arrow. In both cases, different rules apply that drivers must adhere to.
If it's the metal sign with the green arrow on a black background, the same rules apply as with a stop sign. If the traffic light is red, drivers must stop at the stop line. You may only turn right after you have come to a complete stop and if there is no obstruction or danger to other road users. “Particular attention must be paid to pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic in the approved traffic direction,” says Karsten Raspe from TÜV Thuringia. A second stop on the line of sight is also required at the green arrow if the road is not clearly visible from the traffic lights.
Green arrow disregarded: fine of up to 180 euros
However, if it is a light signal in the form of a green arrow, the situation is different. In this situation, drivers are allowed to turn without first stopping. If the arrow does not light up, then the following also applies here: Stop! But if the arrow lights up, then you also have to turn.
As a result of the amendment to the road traffic regulations, there will now also be a green arrow for cyclists to turn right. To do this, they must be on a cycle path or cycle lane. The green arrow can then only apply to cyclists.
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But what penalties are there if you don't follow the rules? This depends on the violation and whether other road users were endangered. Then there are even points in Flensburg.
violation |
fine |
Points |
|---|---|---|
Red traffic light with green arrow: Do not use the right lane to turn in |
15 euro |
- |
... with obstruction in the direction indicated by the green arrow |
35 euros |
- |
Turning at a red light with a green arrow without stopping first |
70 euros |
1 |
Crossing traffic is endangered because of the green arrow |
100 euros |
1 |
...an accident occurs |
120 euros |
1 |
Obstruction of pedestrians and cyclists when turning due to a green arrow |
100 euros |
1 |
... with danger |
150 euros |
1 |
... with an accident |
180 euros |
1 |