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***image1***Issue:
I’m writing to you concerning the problem of drivers leaving their cars running. As we know from the driver’s examination, to leave a car running is against German law. I have spoken with those I see doing this and reminded them of that fact. Usually the response is, “I was only going in for two seconds.” This is not a matter of choice for the driver’s convenience. I have also called the Landstuhl military police about this problem; however, it continues to be an everyday occurrence.
Furthermore, some drivers leave children in the car while it’s running, with the same excuse. One liter of gas puts 5,000 times its volume of carbon monoxide into the air. A car rolling into a building or pedestrian is a very real danger. I think that as visitors to this very clean country, we should respect the German laws and ensure the safety of children and citizens.
Response:
You are correct, leaving a car unattended with the engine idling is a violation of both German law and RABI 31-204, KMC Traffic Code, which governs all military-affiliated drivers within the KMC. The instruction also states that no child under the age of 10 will be left in a vehicle alone for any reason or any period of time. As you stated, these laws are in place to protect the environment and as a safety concern for our children.
If you witness one of these violations, contact the security forces at 480-2050 or 06371-47-2050 and be ready to provide a description of the vehicle, license number and your location. After as few as three citations in a 12-month period, drivers can find their U.S. Army Europe driving privileges suspended.
