Polizei conducts traffic controls during Fasching

by Petra Lessoing 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Photo by nikamo/Shutterstock.com During Fasching, Kaiserslautern Polizei wants all motorists to make it through that time without any accidents or alcohol-related problems. Motorists should be aware of an increased number of traffic controls and DUI checks.
Photo by nikamo/Shutterstock.com
During Fasching, Kaiserslautern Polizei wants all motorists to make it through that time without any accidents or alcohol-related problems. Motorists should be aware of an increased number of traffic controls and DUI checks.

The fifth season, also known as Fasching, is in full gear, and many Fasching parties and dances are scheduled to take place through Feb. 9. The Westpfalz Police Headquarters in Kaiserslautern wants all motorists to make it through that time without any accidents or alcohol-related problems.

At this time of the year, motorists should be aware of an increased number of traffic controls and DUI checks performed by German Polizei.

According to the police headquarters in Kaiserslautern, last year police officers were able to keep numerous motorists from starting their vehicles. But for some drivers, it was too late. They were stopped by Polizei or caused accidents. The consequences resulted in withdrawal of driver’s license, fines, lawsuits, injuries, damages to the vehicle and high repair costs.

Polizei will request a blood-alcohol test if they are suspicious of a motorist’s driving or attitude. If the suspect refuses the test, Polizei can take the suspect to have blood taken. The suspect has to pay about €70 out of his pocket if the test is positive.

Tips from German Polizei

• Plan your trip to the event and back in advance.

• Be responsible; stay sober. Don’t think that one more drink is fine.

• If you drank alcohol even though it wasn’t part of the initial plan, give your car keys to somebody else.

• Not only alcohol but also drugs and medication influence the way you drive.

• Take responsibility for others and keep them from getting behind the wheel of a car drunk.

• Never enter a car with a drunk driver.

• If you are the party host, tell your guests about possible police checks.

• Avoid costumes impacting elbowroom, visibility and hearing. Never wear a face mask when driving.

• Don’t underestimate your blood alcohol level, even if it’s the following morning.

Also, motorists are not authorized to drive with a face mask because their visibility and hearing can be impacted. If German Polizei stop a driver with a face mask on, they can charge a fine. If the disguise results in an accident, consequences might be worse. Insurance might not pay due to gross negligence.