Traffic law

Following the deadly accident of a ten-year-old boy during a medical transport in Baden-Württemberg, the case is once again before the courts. The legal investigation brings to the fore a question that has always accompanied the taxi trade: What responsibility do drivers bear when they transport people who cannot protect themselves?

Autobahn pilots and automated driving functions are increasingly making their way into modern vehicles. But many drivers overestimate the capabilities of the technology – and underestimate their own duties. A look at the Road Traffic Act shows why the responsibility in 2026 remains with the human behind the wheel.

For driverless regular operation, providers must undergo a three-stage authorization process. In the event of accidents, there are also special liability limits for autonomous vehicles.

Right of way in road traffic is regarded as one of the clearest principles. Those on a priority road may generally rely on other road users to yield. But this trust has its limits. This is impressively demonstrated by a ruling of the Frankenthal Regional Court dated August 14, 2026.

(dpa/tmn) A taxi driver initially drove into an intersection on a green light and then moved onto a turning lane that was closed to traffic due to a red signal. The Bavarian Supreme State Court regards this as a red-light violation – regardless of whether other road users were actually endangered.

When in San Bruno a robotaxi from Alphabet subsidiary Waymo attracted attention for an unauthorized turning maneuver, the stop ended up in a legal gray area. The police were able to stop the vehicle – but could not issue a ticket. There was no one to cite. A driver was not at the wheel.

(dpa) Signal, brake, but suddenly the vehicle in front pulls back again - and there is a collision with a vehicle that was overtaking. In the aftermath there is a dispute about liability. The matter isn't as clear-cut as that.

As a taxi driver, you encounter not only vehicles and passengers on the road, but sometimes also situations that are morally shocking and legally complex. A recent order by the Local Court of Hagen (file no. 66 Gs 733/25, order dated 6 June 2025) sheds light on such a difficult situation: Anyone who drives a passenger car over a corpse and then leaves the scene does not commit hit-and-run under Section 142 of the German Criminal Code (StGB). What does that mean for drivers, for the law – and for morality?

Is listening to music while cycling or driving a vehicle generally allowed – and what needs to be considered regarding the volume, if applicable? This is explained by the legal experts at Arag.

Within the framework of the road traffic regulations, the no stopping rule regulates where stopping or parking a vehicle is prohibited. The article highlights the various types, legal foundations, and consequences of violations.

(dpa) How reliably do road users comply with red traffic lights? The ADAC has investigated the behavior of road users in five major German cities. One group in particular stands out.

(ots) It is highly sought after. But why is there a circular, colored sticker on the rear license plate at all? And what do colors and numbers mean? KÜS explains what it's all about and what you should know about it.

The use of a mobile phone while driving is clearly regulated by the German Road Traffic Act (StVO) and is generally prohibited. This applies not only while driving, but also when the vehicle is stationary – for example, at a red traffic light.

Taxi drivers make a significant contribution to public transportation. The PBefG and the StVO grant special rights to taxi drivers in some cases.