The Autobahn

The Autobahn: A Sensible Guide to Driving Fast

Ever dreamed of driving on a highway with no speed limit? In Germany, that’s exactly what you get on the famous Autobahn, and that’s why it’s a bucket-list experience for many road-trippers.

What’s the Autobahn?

The Autobahn is Germany’s network of federal highways, and spans thousands of miles across the country. These motorways contain multiple motorways, which connect major cities and regions. Only motor vehicles are allowed on the Autobahn, so slow vehicles like bicycles are excluded.

Why is it so famous?

The biggest claim to fame for Autobahn is the fact that there’s a lack of general, continuous speed limit. On many sections, drivers can (theoretically) go as fast as they want. Germany is unique in this way, and thanks to its proud car culture, attempts to introduce a nationwide speed limit have failed. It remains the only country without a blanket highway speed limit, and as a result the Autobahn has a legendary status among drivers.

It’s not unlimited everywhere though, and you can’t just drive around at a constant 150mph. About 40% of the Autobahn network has speed limits that sit around 75mph, especially near cities or roadworks. Where there are no speed limits, it’s advised to go around 80mph, but you won’t get a ticket for exceeding this on an open stretch. However, if an accident does happen and you’re going over 80, you can become partly liable. Still, the idea that you could go over 100mph if conditions allow is a huge part of the Autobahn’s attraction and appeal.

Apart from speed, the Autobahn is excellently engineered - gentle curves and thick road surfaces increase a driver’s safety at high velocity. And another perk? It’s toll-free for private cars.

Remember the rules of the road:

Despite high speeds, there are still rules in place to keep the Autobahn orderly and safe:

• Drive on the right, pass on the left.
  Slower traffic stays in the right hand lane, and you should only use the left lane to overtake. After passing, move back over to the right lane. In fact, it’s illegal to pass on the right.
• Obey the speed limits (where they exist).
  Many stretches still have limits, and just like anywhere else, speed cameras will enforce them. Otherwise, go at a safe speed for the conditions, or at the recommended 80mph. And as always, slow down if traffic is heavy or the weather is poor.
• Don’t stop.
  You can’t stop on the Autobahn under any circumstances, except for emergencies. Parking on the hard shoulder is illegal, even if you’ve run out of fuel, so plan your fuel stops and rest breaks in advance.
• Safety comes first.
  Maintain a large following distance. Common sense tells us that the faster you go, the longer it takes to slow, so it’s really important you leave plenty of room to brake. And as you’d expect, seatbelts are mandatory and driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly forbidden.

Tips for taking a hire car on the Autobahn:

• Pick a suitable car.
  Choose a rental with enough power and stability for high speeds. A little economy car might feel unstable above 80mph, so it’s probably worth trying to rent a mid-size or larger model.
• Check your insurance.
  Make sure your rental car’s insurance (and any extra coverage) is valid in Germany. It can be the case that if you greatly exceed 80mph and crash, insurance might not fully cover the damage due to the increased risk. It’s best to stick to sensible speeds unless you’re very confident.
• Fuel and rest.
  Like we’ve said, there’s no stopping on the Autobahn, so keep your tank filled. By that we mean yourself, as well as the car. Take regular breaks, and refuel when you can. A little inside info: restroom facilities usually charge about €0.50 (have coins ready) but they’re kept very clean.

With some preparation and responsible driving, a journey on the Autobahn can be hugely rewarding. You’ll cover long distances quickly and get a taste of Germany’s famed road culture along the way. Follow the rules, stay safe, and enjoy the ride - you’ll soon see why the Autobahn is world-famous. Gute fahrt! (Have a good drive!)