Be Aware: Potential Fines Up to 10,000 Euro for These Items in Your Vehicle (Germany)
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Penalties up to 10,000 Euro for failure to adhere: Refrain from installing object in vehicle - Vehicles should not be left unattended with the keys inside.
Maybe you believe your car's essentials are a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, first aid kit, and warning equipment. However, it's essential to be mindful of what you transport in your vehicle as well. The German automobile club, ADAC, has issued a warning regarding certain types of knives that, if not properly secured, can lead to hefty fines.
A Handy Knife Can Lead to Expensive Trouble
The ADAC advises against carrying certain knives unsecured in your vehicle. This means they should not be easily accessible. These restrictions stem from the Weapons Act, according to an ADAC attorney. A knife is classified as easily accessible if it's stored in the glove compartment or any other location within the vehicle that can be quickly reached.
The ADAC highlights two categories of knives as unlawful to transport unsecured: one-handed knives and knives with a fixed blade over 12 centimeters long. This, surprisingly, also includes softair pistols. Common pocket knives (with a blade length approximately 7 centimeters) are generally permitted.
However, it's the one-handed knives that pose a more significant risk. These knives typically have an opening aid, such as a pin in the blade's center, or adjustable blades. Some models have holes in the blade or a "flipper" mechanism. In these cases, the length of the blade is not a determining factor. If the opening pin can be removed, the knife may still be considered unlawful. Whether removing the opening aid is enough to legally carry the knife is not clearly defined, and it may lead to a fine in the worst-case scenario.
Legitimate Interest or Secure Storage Required
The ADAC recommends only carrying such a knife if you have a "legitimate interest." This term refers to situations where the carrying of the objects is related to a profession, preserving customs, sports, or a generally recognized purpose. If you must transport it but don't have such a "legitimate interest," the knife must be stored in a lockable container. Exactly what constitutes a suitable lockable container may not always be clear.
More Restrictions to Consider
Apart from certain types of knives, it's crucial to avoid transporting hazardous substances like explosives, certain chemicals, large amounts of fuel outside the tank, firearms, unsecured animals, or items that obstruct vision or safety, such as large wooden planks laid across the vehicle.
Important to Note: While the police may not search your car or open doors or reach into the vehicle during a routine traffic check, they can do so if there's an immediate danger or they have a search warrant. Refusing a check may lead to further police action.
[1] Enrichment Data: ADAC provides general guidelines on complying with German law but does not offer an exhaustive list of prohibited items for car transport. German law restricts certain types of knives and other items, depending on the context and location. Compare these details against the German weapons law and relevant traffic regulations for accurate information.
- Vocational training related to the car-maintenance industry might be beneficial for individuals aiming to understand the community policy regarding the transportation of certain knives in vehicles, especially one-handed knives, as proper knowledge of car-maintenance could help them secure these items appropriately.
- Maintaining a lifestyle that prioritizes home-and-garden activities, like gardening or crafting, would likely not include the transportation of unsecured knives, as these hobbies typically don't require such items for participation.
