Twitter
Facebook
During Fasching season, motorists should be aware of an increased number of traffic controls and DUI checks performed by German Polizei.
According to the Westpfalz Police Headquarters in Kaiserslautern,
during last year’s Fasching season, 276 traffic accidents occurred between Old Women’s Fasching (Jan. 31) and Ash Wednesday (Feb. 6).
One person was killed, three were heavily injured and 33 had minor injuries. Five accidents were alcohol-related, including the fatal one.
Police officers will request a breathalyzer test if they become suspicious of the driver’s way of driving or attitude.
If the suspect refuses the test, Polizei can take the suspect to have blood taken. The suspect has to pay about €70 out of his pocket if the test is positive.
When the blood alcohol level or the breathalyzer concentration is over the limit, the motorist’s drive ends right there.
Depending on the level, consequences can be a fine, withdrawal of the driver’s license and a possible lawsuit.
Police officials recommend people who plan to join in on Fasching events either take a taxi or use public transportation. Also, remains of alcohol stay in the body until the following day. Therefore, even the morning after Fasching activities, people should not drive their vehicles. Also, motorists are not authorized to drive with a face mask because their visibility and hearing can be impaired. If German Polizei stops a driver wearing a face mask, they can charge a fine.
If the disguise results in an accident, consequences might be worse. Insurances might not pay due to gross negligence.
(Courtesy of Westpfalz Police Headquarters Kaiserslautern)
