DO look after your car. Make sure you check tire pressures before trying any high-speed runs. Gas stations (or “Rasthofs”) can be far apart, especially considering the extra fuel you’ll burn at speed.
DO build up gradually. Although we can’t fault your enthusiasm for wanting to know what 150 mph feels like on the public highway, first get used to both speeds and German driving behavior.
DO watch your mirrors. Speed differentials can be scary on unrestricted sections. Even if you’re going 100 mph, you’ll be passed with monotonous regularity.
DON’T hog the passing lane. Only use the left lane for overtaking and then move back over.
DON’T speed. You’ll probably get away with doing 10 to 15 km/h above the posted limit, but more than that and you risk a fine. Some areas have variable speed limits, while some limits only apply at certain times or if it’s raining (which will be a speed limit with “BEI NÄSSE” written beneath it).
DON’T go nuts. Even where there are no limits, Germany has a 130-km/h (81-mph) “advisory” maximum. If you’re involved in an accident above this, your speed will be considered a factor.
DO turn your antennae to 11. Trucks are prohibited from using the passing lane on many autobahns, but look out for where this restriction ends. Also, watch out for non-German-plated vehicles.
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DO go easy on the Weissbier. The legal limit for driving is 0.05-percent BAC, but if you’re in an accident with more than 0.03-percent BAC, you can be held liable.
DO use your lights. Keep your low-beams on and flash your brights if it looks as if somebody hasn’t seen you. When approaching stopped traffic, turn on your hazards.
DO be a good Samaritan. It’s a legal requirement in Germany to stop and help (without putting yourself at risk) if there’s a crash or accident. The emergency number is 112 and “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” should get you an English speaker.
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