A new regulation will make it mandatory to have a high-visibility vest in vehicles in Germany, according to a release by German automobile association Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club.
The policy, which takes effect July 1, will require one reflective vest carried in each car, truck or bus registered in Germany.
The vest can be red, yellow or orange, but must comply with German or European standards. A driver found without a vest in the vehicle may be fined.
The regulation brings Germany in line with many other European nations where the vests are already a requirement. While the German policy requires one vest per vehicle, in some countries a vest must be available for any person who leaves a vehicle during an incident, such as a breakdown or accident. Fines are generally higher outside Germany as well; ADAC reports that in Belgium, for example, fines span from €50 to €1,300.
“By when do I need to have this vest in my car?”
-The new rule goes into effect July 1.
“How many do I have to have?”
-German law requires one, but some other countries require one per person.
“Where can I get one of these?”
-They are available at the main Exchange as well as off-post automotive stores.
“How much do they cost?”
-The cost is usually less than $20.
“What happens if I don’t have it?”
-You can be fined. Fines can range from €50 to €1,300.