Right-Before-Left Rule in Germany: How Rechts vor links Works

The Rechts vor links rule means that if there are no traffic lights, traffic controllers, or priority signs at an intersection or junction, the driver must yield to a vehicle approaching from the right. It is often called the “right-before-left rule” in everyday English, but German traffic law refers to the right of way — Vorfahrt.

Where Rechts vor links Applies

In Germany, this is the basic rule for intersections of equal priority. It is most often encountered:

• in residential neighbourhoods;
• on smaller streets without priority signs;
• in 30 km/h zones;
• at intersections without road markings, traffic lights, or Vorfahrt gewähren, Stop, or Vorfahrtstraße signs.

The practical rule of thumb is simple: if you approach an intersection and do not see priority signs, slow down in advance and check to your right.

What Overrides the Right-Before-Left Rule

Rechts vor links does not automatically apply in every traffic situation. Higher-level rules determine priority:

1. A traffic controller or the police. Their instructions take precedence over traffic lights, signs, and general rules.
2. Traffic lights. If a signal controls traffic, follow it.
3. Road signs. For example, sign 205 Vorfahrt gewähren requires you to yield; sign 206 Stop requires you to stop and yield; sign 306 Vorfahrtstraße indicates a priority road.
4. Entering a road. If a driver is leaving a property, car park, pedestrian zone, traffic-calmed zone, or crossing a lowered kerb, they must proceed without creating a hazard for other road users.

This is why it is not enough to remember only “the person on the right is right.” First, determine whether there are signs, traffic lights, or a special type of exit.

How to Proceed at an Intersection of Equal Priority

If you are unsure about priority, drive defensively:

• reduce your speed so that you can stop in time;
• look right, then left, then right again;
• yield to traffic on your right if its path crosses yours;
• do not force another driver to brake sharply or change course;
• if everyone arrives at once and the situation is unclear, use eye contact and gestures, but do not pull out aggressively.

Newcomers to Germany should remember that many small streets look like “main roads,” yet may legally be of equal priority. The road’s width, surface, or your impression that it is the main street does not by itself give it priority.

Common Mistakes

Looking Only at Your Own Lane

At an intersection, you need to take account of traffic approaching from the right that may cross your path. This applies not only to cars, but also to cyclists travelling on the carriageway or along a permitted route.

Assuming the Rule Always Applies in a Car Park

In car parks and on internal access roads, the situation depends on the traffic layout, markings, signs, and whether the lanes resemble ordinary roads. If priority is unclear, it is safer to drive slowly and be prepared to yield.

Ignoring a Lowered Kerb

Pulling out across a lowered kerb is generally not the same as entering a normal intersection. In this situation, the driver must be especially careful and must not create a hazard for other road users.

Missing the End of a Priority Road

Sign 307 marks the end of a priority road. At the next uncontrolled intersection, Rechts vor links may apply again if there are no other signs.

A Mini Checklist Before an Intersection

• Is there a traffic light or traffic controller?
• Are there priority signs: Vorfahrt gewähren, Stop, Vorfahrtstraße, Ende der Vorfahrtstraße?
• Are you exiting a car park, private property, a traffic-calmed zone, or crossing a lowered kerb?
• Is there traffic on your right?
• Can you stop safely if another driver has priority?

If the answer to the first three questions is “no” and traffic is approaching from the right, you normally need to yield in Germany.

FAQ

What is the German name for the right-before-left rule?

The usual term is Rechts vor links. In the context of traffic rules, Vorfahrt — the right of way — is also used.

Does Rechts vor links apply in a 30 km/h zone?

Often, yes, provided there are no signs, traffic lights, or another special traffic arrangement. The rule is especially common in these zones, so reduce your speed in advance.

Do I have to come to a complete stop?

A full stop is mandatory at a Stop sign. Under Rechts vor links without a Stop sign, drive in a way that lets you yield safely to traffic on your right.

What should I do if another driver yields even though they have priority?

Do not pull out merely on assumption. Wait for a clear signal, make sure the path is clear, and proceed cautiously.