Driving Tips: Navigating Germany's Autobahn

USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Have you seen the sign “Rettungsgasse” on the autobahn? It means rescue lane.

• When driving in the U.S. and approached from the rear by an emergency vehicle like an ambulance, drivers typically pull to the right. But in Germany, when there are at least two lanes heading in one direction, the left pulls to the left and the right pulls to the right. In short, “make a hole!”

• Have you ever heard the word "Geisterfahrer" on German radio stations? Some vehicles will even interrupt your music with traffic announcements to warn you of this treacherous situation.

• "Geisterfahrer" literally means "ghost driver." It means that someone has entered the Autobahn heading the wrong direction. This is extremely dangerous! Be careful. If you are on the autobahn when this happens, drive on the right lane and don't pass other cars.

For more helpful tips, follow #USAGBavariaCulturalTips on social media.