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GAS COUPONS / STATIONS
Gas for your vehicle is rationed in Germany. Depending upon
the size of the engine, you will be authorized purchase of 200 or 400
liters per month (600 liters for some large trucks). Your vehicle
registration will contain your gas ration card. Gas coupons are
sold for unleaded, super and diesel gas and can be purchased on post.
The coupons can be used in Germany at all ESSO stations and at
participating ARAL stations on the autobahn. Use of the coupons
allows you to pay "post" prices for off-post gas.
SPEED LIMITS
There is a suggested autobahn speed limit of 130 km/h (about 80 mph)
Although there are stretches of the autobahn that have no speed limit,
if you are involved in an accident in which you were driving faster than
130 km/h, you will be held responsible for the accident. In
cities, towns, and villages the maximum speed limit is 50 km/h (30 mph)
unless the road signs indicate a higher or lower speed limit. In
slow-traffic zones (residential areas and city centers) the maximum
speed limit is 30 km/h (18mph). Outside cities and villages the
top speed limit is 100 km/h (60 mph). The speed limit on all posts
is 30 km/h and is strictly enforced.
CHILD RESTRAINTS
Children four-years-old or younger who do not exceed 50 pounds must
use US or German approved child safety seats when traveling in Germany.
Children over four years in age and in excess of 50 pounds, yet under 12
years in age must be seated in the rear seat of the vehicle with the
seat best fastened unless the rear seats are already occupied by
children in that age group or the vehicle does not have a back seat.
Chilren 12 and under or less than 4'9" in height require an approved car
booster seat.
AUTO CLUB
Germany has a service similar to AAA called ADAC. To become a
member, you must complete an application at a local ADAC office.
ACCIDENTS
If you are ever involved in an accident, the German police are in
charge. However, you must still fill out a report on the accident
for the military police. Be sure to contact the Military Police
nearest your location. You should remain at the scene and place
your reflective warning triangle a sufficient distance away from the
rear of the vehicle. Finally, notify your insurance company even
if you are not at fault.
Many Germans do not want to involve the German police and would rather
work it out through their insurance companies. If you believe you
are not at fault, it may be in your best interest to insist that the
German police be notified. They will be able to take pictures of
the scene and provide an official report to your insurance company
stating you were not at fault.
DAMAGED
SHIPMENT?
SEE OUR GUIDE TO
CLAIMS FOR LOSS/DAMAGE TO HOUSEHOLD GOODS/BAGGAGE
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