German authorities warn of increased autumn road safety risks

Authorities in Rhineland-Palatinate are issuing safety warnings as autumn weather conditions increase road risks. The Mainz Police Headquarters has highlighted the danger of dense fog and wet roads, noting that automatic vehicle lighting sensors often fail to detect daytime fog. This can leave vehicle rears unlit and invisible to following drivers. Police recommend manually activating low-beam headlights during fog, rain, or snow.

For drivers, visibility can be gauged by roadside guide posts, which are spaced 50 meters apart; if the next post is not visible, speed should be reduced to a maximum of 50 km/h.

Cyclists and e-scooter users are also urged to increase visibility through bright clothing, reflectors, and functional lighting. Robert Wöhler, Managing Director of the ADFC Rhineland-Palatinate, warns that cyclists must adapt to slippery surfaces caused by wet leaves, manhole covers, and tram tracks, advising more cautious riding to avoid accidents during the transition to darker, wetter months.