The StVG (Road Traffic Act) is a law in Germany that regulates road traffic and establishes basic rules for participation in road traffic. It forms the legal basis for public road traffic and defines the rights and obligations of all road users.
The Road Traffic Act contains provisions on various areas of road traffic, including:
- Traffic regulations: The StVG contains general rules for road traffic, such as compliance with traffic signs and signals, speed limits, right-of-way rules and overtaking prohibitions.
- Driver’s license: It regulates the requirements for the acquisition and withdrawal of the driver’s license. The law defines the various classes of driver’s licenses and contains provisions on fitness to drive, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and the obligations of license holders.
- Vehicle registration: The StVG contains regulations on the registration of vehicles and sets out requirements for the technical safety and environmental compatibility of vehicles. It also regulates the obligations of vehicle owners, such as the regular general inspection (HU) and motor vehicle insurance.
- Traffic Monitoring and Fining Procedures: The law regulates the powers of the road traffic authorities and the police to monitor road traffic and to punish traffic violations. It sets the amount of fines for various traffic offenses and regulates the procedure for traffic violations.
- Liability law: The StVG contains provisions on liability in road traffic, including the liability of vehicle drivers, vehicle owners and insurance companies. It also regulates claims for damages in traffic accidents.
The Road Traffic Act forms the basis for further jurisdiction and, in combination with other laws and ordinances such as the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), is decisive for the organization and conduct of road traffic in Germany.