Who is parked?

In German traffic rules, a vehicle is considered "parked" if it is stopped for more than 3 minutes or if the driver leaves the vehicle. This distinguishes parking from simply stopping briefly, such as to pick up passengers or load goods. Waiting longer than 3 minutes at a closed level crossing barrier is considered a stop but not parking, as it is due to external circumstances beyond the driver's control. Understanding these definitions helps determine when parking regulations apply, such as parking restrictions or payment requirements.