You are driving on the autobahn in light traffic. How long are you allowed to stay in the left-hand lane?

In Germany, the rules for using the left-hand lane on the autobahn are specifically designed to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety. You are allowed to stay in the left lane primarily for overtaking other vehicles, which is stated in option 1. This means that if you are passing a slower vehicle, you can use the left lane.

However, option 2 is also correct because if you are driving behind a vehicle that is itself overtaking another vehicle, it is permissible to remain in the left lane until the overtaking maneuver is completed.

Option 3 is misleading because it suggests that you can occupy the left lane at any time as long as no one is trying to overtake you. This contradicts the fundamental rule that the left lane is intended for overtaking only. Therefore, one must always be prepared to return to the right lane once the overtaking is finished or if no overtaking is necessary.

Understanding these rules is crucial for maintaining traffic efficiency and safety on the autobahn.