You are driving on a wide road on which oncoming traffic can pass by you, unobstructed. Within what distance must you be able to stop in any event?

In German traffic regulations, the ability to stop your vehicle within a visible distance is crucial for safety. According to the rules, you must be able to stop within the distance that is readily visible to you when driving, especially in situations where oncoming traffic is present.

The correct understanding is that you need to account for various factors, including the reaction time of the driver and the stopping distance required based on the speed allowed on the road. This means that while you may react quickly to an unexpected situation, the total distance you must be able to stop within should generally include a full range of visibility.

In scenarios where visibility might decrease or where unexpected hazards could arise, being able to stop within the entire distance you can see — rather than just half or double that — ensures that you maintain safety for yourself and other road users. This is why understanding the entirety of the distance is crucial, not just a portion of it.