Do street signs also apply if they are covered in snow and do I face fines if I don't follow them? We'll tell you.
It's currently snowing thickly again in large parts of Germany. Not only are the streets covered in a layer of white, but in many places the street signs also disappear under a blanket of snow.
But what then? Do the regulations on the signs still apply? And will I face fines if I don't drive accordingly? Here come the answers.
In Germany there is a principle of visibility
In Germany, the so-called visibility principle applies to traffic signs. Drivers must be able to see what is written on them with a quick glance.
If the signs are dirty or, as in the current case, heavily snowed over, drivers usually do not face a fine if, for example, they exceed the speed limit.
If the sign is only slightly covered by snow or can be clearly identified due to its distinctive shape, then it is valid despite snowfall. Anyone who doesn't comply will face fines.
Exception rule for locals
Be careful if you are familiar with the area: You are expected to know the traffic rules of the place you know. Even when the signs are covered in snow. This applies, for example, to right-of-way rules or the maximum permissible speed.
This means: If you drive a certain route every day, you could face a fine if you ignore the signs. Snow or not. In this case, your license plate will give you away.
Can I appeal the fine?
If you were caught at a spot where the traffic sign was heavily covered in snow, you can appeal the fine.
Important: You must be able to prove that the sign was not visible through the snow. A photo supports your statement. Of course it has to be from that point in time. When taking photos, make sure that you have parked the car safely beforehand and that you are not endangering yourself or other road users.
A weather report from the German Weather Service can also help you get it right. However, such reports are subject to a fee.
