Enigmas persist, surpassing bounds
In the small town of Mahndorf, Bremen, a heated debate has arisen over the legality of overtaking at a traffic light located near a railway crossing. The Bremen police and Deutsche Bahn (DB) have found themselves at odds, with each party presenting differing viewpoints on the matter.
According to the Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung (StVO), overtaking near railway crossings is generally prohibited to ensure safety. The Bremen police, adhering to this principle, have declared that overtaking at the traffic light near the railway crossing in Mahndorf is not allowed.
However, DB has reportedly suggested that under certain conditions, overtaking at the traffic light in Mahndorf might be permissible or at least not explicitly forbidden. This stance seems to be based on technical or operational nuances of the specific crossing, possibly considering the traffic light as a point where the general ban on overtaking near the actual crossing might not fully apply.
The question of who is correct has sparked a review by the police to prevent further confusion and illegal overtaking maneuvers. Nils Matthiesen, spokesperson for the Bremen police, has concluded that measures are being taken to address the issue and ensure the safety of road users.
Günther Grabendorff, a local resident, has reported witnessing numerous overtaking maneuvers before the red light at the crossing. He expresses concern that the new traffic light, installed on June 19th, appears to be causing confusion among drivers.
Petra Spalek, spokesperson for the Office for Streets and Traffic (ASV), has clarified that DB operates and installed the traffic lights on site. DB responds that the traffic light installation was planned in close coordination with the ASV and erected by DB, and that the red light only prohibits road users from crossing the railway crossing, not the intersection.
Daniel Knok, a traffic law attorney, has weighed in on the matter, stating that driving through a light signal in front of an Andreaskreuz is a significant traffic offense. He emphasises that DB's viewpoint is not accurate, aligning himself with the Bremen police's interpretation of the situation.
In case of dispute, consulting the local traffic authority or legal rulings may be necessary. However, the safest assumption is to follow police guidance and avoid overtaking at that location. The fines for crossing the intersection on red range from 70 euros and one point in the driver's license register to 300 euros, two points, and a one-month driving ban.
The traffic light at the Mahndorf railway crossing seems to prevent traffic without a clear reason, turning red as soon as the railway crossing closes, also seemingly prohibiting straight traffic. Straight traffic is allowed to proceed according to DB's statement. However, unless the traffic light area is specifically designed and marked to allow safe overtaking (which would be exceptional and require clear signage), overtaking should not be done.
In conclusion, overtaking near or at the railway crossing in Mahndorf is generally not allowed according to usual traffic regulations and the Bremen police. Deutsche Bahn's stance seems more permissive but is less aligned with the standard traffic safety rules. Therefore, the Bremen police interpretation is likely the correct and safest one.
Other industries, such as finance and transportation, may find parallels in this discussion about the legality of overtaking at a traffic light near a railway crossing. The debate highlights the importance of clear guidelines and communication to prevent confusion and ensure safety.
