Why does German autobahn have no speed limit?

Autobahn Germany: History of Speed Limits The Nazi government passed the Road Traffic Act in 1934, limiting speeds to 60 kph (37 mph) in urban areas but setting no limit for rural roads or autobahns. In December 1973, the oil crisis prompted the West German government to set an autobahn speed limit of 100 kph (62 mph).

Does Germany have a highway without speed limit?

Germany, with its well-constructed autobahns, is the only industrialized Western country without a general speed limit. However, there are many stretches of highway where drivers do have to slow down.

Why is the Autobahn unique?

Impressive road maintenance. Another reason the Germans can get away with unlimited-speed Autobahn sections is their highways are extremely well maintained, which means smooth sailing. The broken roads we have in America could be lethal above 100 mph.

Does the Autobahn have less accidents?

Is the Autobahn safest? Research by the Federal Highway Research Institute states that the Autobahn experiences fewer vehicle-related fatalities than the U.S. This means this German highway experiences fewer deaths per billion miles traveled than American highways.

How fast can you drive on the autobahn?

That means 130 km/h (80 mph), the recommended top speed on the German autobahn (and the legal maximum speed on motorways in most European countries). The legal speed limit is a black number on a round white sign outlined in red (see sign images below).

Why does Germany have such good roads?

This is primarily because it is almost flawlessly designed and is constantly being maintained. These factors help keep the Autobahn in great condition at all times and in all weather conditions. Also, the fact that there are no fixed speed limits makes it very appealing to drivers from all around the world.

Do German roads have a speed limit?

There are, however, stretches of the roadway where it is true, no speed limit . German regulations, however, mandate that a vehicle is always under control, leaving room for the “reasonable speed” limits that are enforced in other nations. In all, about one-half of the miles of the Autobahn has a posted speed limit.

Which side of the road do you Drive on in Germany?

Germans drive on the right side of the road and the car steering wheels on the left side of the car. If you are thinking of bringing your car with you, you may have to have a number of items changed for it to satisfy German safety standards.

What is the speed limit on highways in Germany?

Speed limits: Speed limits in German cities are generally 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour), though in limits in some inner residential areas are reduced to 30 kph (19 mph). On highways, you are not allowed to drive faster than 100 kph (62 mph) unless otherwise marked.

What is Interstate speed limit?

On Interstate highways in the United States, speed limits range from urban limits as low as 40 mph (65 km/h) to rural limits as high as 75 mph (120 km/h). Before the 1973 energy crisis, some states posted no speed limit on Interstate highways.