In a groundbreaking decision, Germany's Federal Court (BGH) fluctuated the norm for streets allowed to host one-directional traffic, invalidating a previous ruling. Reversing is generally prohibited in these areas, however, specific exceptions include immediate reverse parking maneuvers and exiting in reverse from a property onto the street.
This decision now bolsters the responsibility of all drivers in navigating these streets.
The case in question stemmed from a woman attempting to maneuver her car, reversing a few meters, and unintentionally colliding with another driver's vehicle. The man filed a lawsuit against her.
The Düsseldorf District Court initially favored the man's claim, but the Düsseldorf Regional Court subsequently dismissed it. In turn, the Federal Court in Karlsruhe overturned this decision due to legal errors, requiring the Düsseldorf Regional Court to revisit the case (Case number VI ZR 287/22).
On one-way streets, parking is permitted on both sides, excluding direct prohibitions. Generally, parking is only allowed in the direction of traffic flow.
Riding bicycles on one-way streets follows the prescribed direction, but exceptions exist. Beneath the one-way street sign with the bicycle and two arrows pointing in opposite directions, cyclists are allowed to ride against the direction of the one-way street.
Adhering to the applicable instructions ensures safe movement and complies with regulations. Overtaking on one-way streets is allowed when there's sufficient space, and other road users remain unharmed. Despite the narrowness of these streets, such situations are rare.
Regulations regarding boating and turning around in narrow waterways involve specific restrictions. Supermarket parking lots in Germany feature their unique rules around turning, with certain restrictions on reversing.
With no recent updates in traffic regulations following the Federal Court decision, official German government sources and local traffic authorities remain the best resources for accurate and up-to-date information.
