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Priority at the next junctionGermany

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Germany. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Germany

52. Priority at the next junction

Priority at the next junction means that drivers travelling on a particular road have priority over traffic entering from intersecting roads at the next junction. The priority arrangement is normally indicated by signs facing both the priority traffic and the traffic that must give way.

Unlike a continuing priority road, this priority applies only at the indicated intersection. Drivers must still approach cautiously and obey traffic lights, authorised officers, crossings, turning rules and other applicable signs.

Priority at the next junction
Priority-at-the-next-junction sign on Akazienallee. (Essen, Germany)
Wikimedia.org • Wiki05 • CC BY-SA
How is priority at the next junction determined in Germany?

Germany’s priority-at-the-next-junction sign gives priority at the next junction or road entry. It differs from the yellow-diamond priority-road sign, which establishes continuing priority until the prescribed end or change. Obey traffic lights and any other applicable controls.

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§3,8–9,11,36–38; Annex 3, signs 301,306–307

Does priority at one junction automatically continue along the entire road in Germany?

No. One-junction priority and continuing priority-road status are distinct concepts. Check the local signs at each following junction, including any end-of-priority marker, traffic signal or new Give Way or Stop sign.

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§3,8–9,11,36–38; Annex 3, signs 301,306–307

May a driver with priority ignore pedestrians or another safety obligation at the next junction in Germany?

No. Junction priority does not cancel duties towards pedestrians, traffic signals, emergency vehicles or other road users where the law gives them precedence. Approach at a speed allowing you to stop safely.

🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§3,8–9,11,36–38; Annex 3, signs 301,306–307

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