Is stopping allowed on the Autobahn except in emergencies?

Stopping on the Autobahn is strictly prohibited except in emergencies. This rule is in place to maintain the flow of traffic and ensure safety on one of the fastest roadways in Europe. The high speeds at which vehicles travel mean that unexpected stops can lead to serious accidents.

Stopping in any location other than approved areas compromises both the safety of the driver and others on the road, potentially causing collisions due to rapid changes in speed and direction. Emergency stop signals from vehicles are crucial, as is the use of flashers when an emergency occurs, allowing other drivers to react appropriately. Thus, stopping for any reason other than a legitimate emergency is against the rules and can result in penalties.

Designated areas on the Autobahn, such as rest stops or emergency lay-bys, are specifically meant for stopping. These areas are designed to be safe and do not interfere with the flow of traffic.