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Roadside Assistance

Support for vehicle breakdowns or accidents, including towing services and emergency road repairs.

Sections

1. Overview of Roadside Assistance in Germany

Roadside assistance in Germany is designed to help drivers in case of vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies while on the road. Services are provided by a mix of private companies, automobile clubs, and insurance providers. The most prominent organizations include:

  • ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club): Germany’s largest automobile club, offering extensive roadside assistance services.
  • AvD (Automobilclub von Deutschland): Another well-known automobile club with a long history of providing assistance.
  • Insurance Companies: Many car insurance policies include roadside assistance as part of their coverage.
  • Rental Car Companies: Most rental car agreements include roadside assistance, but the terms vary by provider.

2. National Regulations

Germany has specific regulations and practices related to roadside assistance and vehicle breakdowns:

a. Safety Requirements

  • Warning Triangle: It is mandatory to carry a warning triangle in your vehicle. In case of a breakdown, place it at least 100 meters behind your car on regular roads and 200 meters on highways (Autobahnen).
  • Reflective Vest: Drivers must wear a reflective vest when exiting the vehicle on highways or in low-visibility conditions.
  • First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is required by law to be in every vehicle.

b. Stopping on Highways

  • Stopping on the Autobahn is only allowed in emergencies (e.g., breakdowns or accidents). Running out of fuel is not considered an emergency and may result in fines.

c. Towing Regulations

  • Towing a vehicle on the Autobahn is only permitted to the nearest exit. Beyond that, professional towing services must be used.

3. Standard Procedures for Roadside Assistance

If you experience a breakdown or need roadside assistance in Germany, follow these steps:

Step 1: Ensure Safety

  1. Pull over to the side of the road or onto the emergency lane (on highways).
  2. Turn on your hazard lights.
  3. Put on your reflective vest before exiting the vehicle.
  4. Place the warning triangle at the appropriate distance behind your car.

Step 2: Contact Roadside Assistance

  • ADAC: Call their 24/7 hotline at +49 89 20 20 4000. ADAC offers assistance to members and non-members, though non-members may face higher costs.
  • AvD: Call their hotline at +49 69 6606 600.
  • Rental Car Assistance: Use the emergency number provided by your rental car company.
  • Insurance Provider: If your car insurance includes roadside assistance, call the emergency number listed on your policy.

Step 3: Wait for Assistance

  • Stay in a safe location, preferably behind a guardrail or away from traffic.
  • Wait for the roadside assistance team to arrive. Response times vary depending on your location and traffic conditions.

4. Costs of Roadside Assistance

The cost of roadside assistance in Germany depends on several factors, including whether you are a member of an automobile club, the type of service required, and whether you have coverage through your insurance or rental car provider.

a. Automobile Clubs

  • ADAC Membership: Annual membership costs start at around €54 for basic coverage (ADAC Plus costs around €94 per year). Members receive free roadside assistance within Germany and other benefits.
  • Non-Members: Non-members can still request ADAC services, but fees can range from €150 to €300 or more, depending on the service.

b. Insurance Coverage

  • Many car insurance policies include roadside assistance as part of their package. Check your policy for details. If included, the service is typically free or involves a small deductible.

c. Rental Cars

  • Most rental car companies include basic roadside assistance in their contracts. However, additional fees may apply for specific services, such as towing or replacing a flat tire.

d. Independent Towing Services

  • If you call an independent towing company, expect to pay between €100 and €300 for towing, depending on the distance and time of day.

5. Country-Specific Considerations

Germany has some unique aspects of roadside assistance that visitors and immigrants should be aware of:

a. Emergency Phones on Highways

  • Germany’s Autobahnen are equipped with emergency phones (Notrufsäulen) approximately every 2 kilometers. These phones connect directly to roadside assistance or emergency services and are free to use.

b. Language Barrier

  • While many roadside assistance operators speak English, it is helpful to know basic German phrases, such as:
    • "Mein Auto ist kaputt." (My car is broken down.)
    • "Ich brauche Hilfe." (I need help.)
    • "Wo bin ich?" (Where am I?)

c. Environmental Zones

  • If your breakdown occurs in an environmental zone (Umweltzone), ensure your vehicle has the required emissions sticker (Umweltplakette). Driving without one can result in fines.

d. Winter Conditions

  • In winter, ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires (mandatory in snow, ice, or frost conditions). Roadside assistance may not cover incidents caused by improper tires.

6. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Join an Automobile Club: If you plan to drive frequently in Germany, consider joining ADAC or AvD for peace of mind and cost savings.
  • Check Your Insurance Policy: Ensure your car insurance includes roadside assistance and understand the terms.
  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: In addition to the mandatory items (warning triangle, reflective vest, first aid kit), carry a flashlight, phone charger, and water.
  • Know Emergency Numbers: Save the contact numbers for roadside assistance providers and your insurance company in your phone.

7. Emergency Numbers

  • ADAC Hotline: +49 89 20 20 4000
  • AvD Hotline: +49 69 6606 600
  • European Emergency Number (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
  • Towing Services (General): 0800 6683663 (ADAC-affiliated towing)

By understanding the roadside assistance system in Germany and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience. Whether you are a visitor or a new resident, these services are designed to provide reliable support in case of emergencies.