[memason]

I'm still a wannabe; couple years away, but I had to weigh in on this discussion. I do acquire my share of speeding tickets, in the US. I have been living in Germany for the last 6 months and driving the infamous autobahn....ie NO SPEED LIMIT! It's amazing how well we can all get along at 120MPH and it's rare that I see an accident. Some things are strictly illegal here though, like passing on the right. For that offense, you will get a hefty fine. Consequently, most drivers stay in the right lane, unless they are passing another vehicle. I have a 320 diesel BMW that will cruise at 125 to 130MPH all day long and get still get 30+ miles per gallon. Not sure why we can't build 'em that way in the US ???? Driving at 80MPH nets over 40MPG. By the way, at 125 MPH, I spend most of my time in the right lane!

Although the autobahn is speed limit free, all other roads have speed limits. In cities, the predominant speed limit is 50KM/h (31mph) and construction and school zones are 30km/h (18mph)...no exceptions. The interesting thing is they seldom stop a car...rather, they take your picture and mail you a ticket. Pretty efficient...the picture show you behind the wheel and your license plate, along with the speed you are driving. Tough to argue...

I know many of you will not share my fondness of a wide open autobahn, but I suspect there are few of you that would just like get out there and let 'er rip!

Next time I'm in the Villages, I guess I better watch my speed!

Enjoy.....