Name that Sign!

Believe it or not there are several things that I am beginning to realize will be missed once we move back to the states.  At the top of the list surprisingly enough is the food, something I though I would never say a little over 2 years ago.  Another thing is the driving...most notably the autobahn.  Although it was a little difficult to get used to seeing cars zoom past you at well over 200 MPH I have now become quite fond of the rules of the road....many of which I think need to be spread across the pond!

*It is illegal to pass on the right side...and NO ONE breaks this law!  This means that there are no crazy speed demons zipping in and out of traffic as if their lives are more important than your own.  However if you choose to stay in the left lane for too long you will likely find someone right on your tail flashing their lights for you to move over.

*Trucks must stay in the far right lane unless in a designated zone and are required to follow strict speed limits.  This greatly limits the amount of 18 wheelers bearing down your back as you head down a hill!  Not only that but in any traffic situation trucks must remain in the right lane even if they are in a designated passing zone.  This usually allows all other traffic to flow more freely!

*Speed limit signs (yes they are found in some places along the autobahn) are often electronic.  This allows them to be changed when the occasion arises.  When weather is bad, accidents are ahead, or road construction is upon you the speed limit is often lowered and signs are changed to indicate the situation ahead!  Not only is it much safer but if you know that there is a traffic jam ahead you have the change to get off at the next exit before you even see the break lights!  Now...I know that this might be common practice in bigger cities in the US, but it was a new thing for me!

*You are REQUIRED to have "winter" tires between the months of October- April and they must have a certain amount of tread.  If you are caught without the right kind of tires you receive a fine, if you get in an accident and you are found to not have the correct tires you can automatically be at fault regardless of the situation. 

*It is extremely rare to see a dented, smoking, or just plain junky car.  German law indicates that all cars must pass an inspection and deemed roadworthy.  Cars have been known to fail the inspection for having a single rust spot or dent in a critical location. A broken light or a malfunctioning exhaust system would be obvious reasons for rejection.

*It is illegal to run out of gas on the Autobahn and any car on the side of the road must be marked with a warning triangle 200 meter ahead of the vehicle to warn approaches.  This triangle, along with a first aid kit  and reflective vests for all passengers must be in the car in order to pass the mentioned inspection!

Even though the speeds are sometimes a little out of control (after all the recommended speed is 130 km or 81 MPH) I have never felt unsafe and have even gotten used to putting the pedal to the metal.  However, unlike my husband have yet to hit 100......nor do I intend to :P

And just for fun.... the second installment of NAME THAT SIGN (or in this case signs)! I know you have been on the edge of your seat wondering when this award winning game was going to return to screen!