Overview

• An ACE study of 31 motorway rest areas in East Germany counted 2,168 trucks using 1,412 bays, indicating roughly 50% overcapacity.
• Improperly parked lorries at entry and exit ramps and in car bays create traffic safety hazards during evening hours.
• A 2023 Federal Highway Research Institute survey found a nationwide shortfall of more than 19,500 regular truck parking spaces.
• Nationwide rest area figures are due to be released on June 18 in advance of the Tag der Verkehrssicherheit on June 21.
• BGL is urging the Transport Ministry to streamline approval procedures, mandate parking in new industrial zones and make spaces a policy priority.