When it is warm outside, people try and stay hydrated - but when it comes to long drives, that can lead to difficulties if you are stuck in traffic.
Motorists should plan breaks in good time to go to the toilet, say motoring associations, or they could wind up struggling.
You cannot just leap out of your car on the motorway and disappear behind the bushes or crash barrier to relieve yourself, as this is prohibited under the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) in Germany and in other places, says the Auto Club Europa (ACE).
Do not enter motorways, regardless of whether traffic is moving or at a standstill – not even for a quick toilet break. Stopping on the hard shoulder is also prohibited, except in the event of a breakdown or following an accident.
You are, however, permitted to stop there in an emergency which the ACE says for example could be a motorcyclist at risk of heatstroke in summer.
But regardless of the kind of vehicle you are driving, needing to use the toilet generally does not count as an emergency.
In an acute situation, your options are limited, so Britain's RAC motoring association and the ACE both strongly urge drivers to plan ahead.
Professional drivers are obliged to take regular breaks. But often, those driving on holiday trips are tempted just to press on until they get there - which can be harmful and exhausting for the driver.
Taking a proper break is essential, even if it is a brief stop, whether for the bathroom, a rest or a cup of water of coffee, the RAC notes.
You can also pack emergency toilets or portable toilets. These do not take up much space and there are different models available for men, women and children.
Motorhome can offer advantages
If you are driving on a trip and are stuck in a traffic jam in a motorhome which has a toilet on board, you may use it if you can move to it while remaining inside the vehicle.
However, this is only permitted whilst the vehicle is stationary and provided the ignition is switched off. As soon as traffic starts moving again, all occupants must be back in their seats.
The situation is quite different with a caravan fitted with a toilet: its toilet cannot be used, as this would require leaving the vehicle and stepping onto the motorway.
Take breaks early and regularly
To prevent the situation from becoming unnecessarily awkward, the ACE advises taking regular breaks: a rest of at least 15 minutes every two hours or every 200 kilometres is helpful. That is a chance for a toilet break.
Mobility apps with real-time data can also help prevent you from getting caught in a long traffic jam, which would otherwise put your bladder under unnecessary strain.
However, the ACE has one further piece of advice. Anyone who, despite all precautions, finds themselves in a sudden, very protracted traffic jam and has absolutely no choice but to enter the motorway – in contravention of the rules – must be particularly vigilant and keep a close eye on other road users.
Even when traffic has been at a standstill for hours, you must always expect vehicles to be using the emergency lane or hard shoulder. — dpa
