Rail safetyGermany
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.
107. Rail safety
Rail safety refers to the rules, systems and precautions used to prevent accidents involving trains, railway infrastructure and people who interact with railways. It includes safe train operation, signalling, track protection, level-crossing safety and measures to prevent unauthorised access to railway tracks.
Road users should take particular care at railway crossings and obey barriers, warning lights, audible signals and traffic signs. Railway tracks should be crossed only at authorised locations and only when it is safe to clear them completely.
Wikimedia.org • bigbug21 • CC BY-SA
Do German path users yield to trains without cross signs?
Yes, on pedestrian, cycle, field and forest paths.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
How should German drivers approach railway crossings?
At a moderate speed.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Where does Germany ban overtaking motor vehicles near crossings?
From the railway-crossing warning sign, including its three-stripe version, through the crossing.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Can a train's audible warning require German drivers to wait?
Yes, including an approaching train's whistle.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Who must obey German arrow-shaped red crossing signals?
Those intending to travel in the arrow's direction.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
Where should German pedestrians wait for trains?
At a safe distance before the crossing.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings
How should waiting German motorists use headlights?
Avoid dazzling other people.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, Road Traffic Regulations, section 19, level crossings

Traffic rules
Germany