The question is more like why can you do it in America? And the answer is, walking is so unbearable due to the lack of infrastructure anyways that encountering a pedestrian is so rare that you can pretty much assume there won't be non.

@cy8berpunk831

2 жыл бұрын

kudos

@corpi8784

2 жыл бұрын

Walking is seen as somewhat of a suspicious behavior in much of the US...

@emjayay

2 жыл бұрын

Actually, in the United States, Western states have allowed it for more than 50 years, and Eastern states amended their traffic laws to allow it in the 1970s as a fuel-saving measure in response to motor fuel shortages in 1973. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 required that in order for a state to receive federal assistance in developing mandated conservation programs, they must permit right turns on red lights with exceptions for cities like New York.

@agn855

2 жыл бұрын

@@emjayay - yep, you're car centric. This fellow guy hits the nail about that topic: kzread.info/dash/bejne/p6ytzatsYMm5ZZc.html

@amuzulo

2 жыл бұрын

And this is why walking 10 min from my parents’ house in the suburbs to the supermarket is considered dangerous. That pisses me off.

It deserves great respect when someone points out that he changed his mind. Even greater respect when he takes such efforts to explain what made him change his opinion.

@susannabonke8552

2 жыл бұрын

He's a Storyteller..Naturally gifted.

@zhouwu

2 жыл бұрын

I respect his humility in being open minded enough to be converted to another way of thinking. Now, all he needs to do is to work out if he's in Germany or in the USA. Then, he'll know whether to prioritise the pedestrians over the cars (Germany) or to prioritise the cars over the pedestrians (the USA).

@patriciamillin1977

2 жыл бұрын

@@zhouwu I think he already did that in this video ;)

@zhouwu

2 жыл бұрын

@@patriciamillin1977 Oh, but it's the reverse culture shock I'm waiting for. As someone who has traveled between cultures, sometimes, the reverse culture shock is far worse than the culture shock. You always see the culture shock coming (even if it can come in unexpected ways) but the reverse culture shock catches you offguard, because you expect to be "coming home" where it's "safe" and "normal", which, after having your eyes opened overseas, no longer apply in an absolute way anymore.

@zhouwu

2 жыл бұрын

@@patriciamillin1977 I hope that clarifies where I'm coming from.

Not turning right on a red light. A couple of possible reasons: Germany has A LOT more pedestrians on the streets. A crapton more bikes on the street/bike lanes. Countless more children of all age who are alone on their way to/from school or in general outside on the streets and sidewalks crossing streets. Waiting a couple of seconds for the light turn green vs potentially harming or destroying someone's life because they were in the blind spot while you focused on the left side to see if a car is coming … decisions decisions 🤔

@flairoftheair

2 жыл бұрын

You said it. Absolutely right. The German law says that car drivers have to make a full stop at a green arrow before they turn right. But most of the car drivers don‘t stop. And some even seem to be in a hurry and speed around the corner. These practices are in fact life-dangerous for pedestrians and bike-drivers. It is very interesting, that Nalf picks that up. Again: he is a cool guy!

@stephanweinberger

2 жыл бұрын

@@flairoftheair But that's also the reason why turning on red is not the default but has to be allowed by the arrow sign: so you can limit it to intersections where there is a low risk (e.g. no sidewalk, no pedestrian crossing to the right, little bike traffic, ...).

@flairoftheair

2 жыл бұрын

@@stephanweinberger That‘s correct. When there cannot be any risk, then the arrow sign is useful.

@wobblybobengland

2 жыл бұрын

Coming from a big metropolis in England, and having lived in Germany for twenty years, I just can't get used to waiting at traffic lights for ages either as a driver, as a cyclist or as a pedestrian, and there are fewer deaths per km or mile in the UK.

@vJaBoG32Laud

2 жыл бұрын

@@wobblybobengland so you got no red lights in the UK or don't you let them bother you?

When a colleague and I were in the US for a business trip, we decided ONCE to do a very german thing: One afternoon, we WALKED to a restaurant, only 1.5 km away. It was a nice day, and a nice walk... well, somehow. It was very tricky to find a way at all, we had to do at least twice the distance due to long detours, and I believe we freaked out some drivers doing so... at least, no one called the cops, and we were very careful. But I think this is a major difference: In some cities in the US, it is almost impossible to take a walk. Not so in Germany.

@sokyoul

2 жыл бұрын

Same here... Decided to walk to the supermarket in the US and had to walk most of the path on the side of the street because there were no pedestrian walkways and everyone looked at me like im some kind of alien😂

@BlackDragonWitheHawk

2 жыл бұрын

everything below 5km should be walkable... greetings from switzerland ;-)

@schwingedeshaehers

2 жыл бұрын

@@sokyoul the first think can also happen in Germany, but mostly then you are either not in a city, or on a street directly with (living) houses.

@dominiklehn2866

2 жыл бұрын

Another thing in the US: Crossing a street somewhere that's not explicitly marked as a pedestrian crossing is illegal. No matter how large the street is. _why_

@milimuller3348

2 жыл бұрын

The foot bus is always driving ;) Don't even know if you can translate it that way but idgaf, it's a saying in the german army meaning that you can always use your feet from A to B

Another more specific example: Often times, pedestrians will get a green light, and the drivers a few seconds after. Even upon green light, the driver will have to wait for pedestrians to cross before turning right. But the few extra seconds mean that pedestrians and cyclists are in motion already and therefore easy to notice for the driver. Not all traffic lights are set up that way, but I enjoy the extra safety when they are

@simonvetter2420

2 жыл бұрын

How is that extra safety? I got run over at once of those.

@Friek555

2 жыл бұрын

The actually safe thing to do would be to prevent the situation where cars turning right get a green light at the same time as pedestrians.

@LordFata

2 жыл бұрын

@@Friek555 No doubt. I see more green arrow traffic lights nowadays. Gives me hope that eventually they'll be mandatory for left and right turns

@horrovac

2 жыл бұрын

The actual safety gain is the fact that you don't have to watch if anything is coming from the left. You are free to look to the right if there are any other traffic participants in the way. In fact while waiting you have a lot of time to observe if anyone is waiting at the light. A far-right government coalition here in Austria actually talked about introducing the turn-right-on-red rule and announced some tests (along with the test to raise the general speed limit on motorways from 130 to 140km/h), but they have been kicked out of government since and I don't know what became of it. The test stretches of motorway for the 140km/h thing are gone - they were fun in a kind of scary way while they lasted, but even though i was one of the few that actually used the speed (actually due to rules and tolerances 157km/h were possible without fines), I think it is a rubbish idea. Apart from a couple of lead-footed people, nobody really wants it.

@joergsonnenberger6836

2 жыл бұрын

@@simonvetter2420 It adds safety by increasing the chance that the pedestrians are already on the road when the cars start. Sounds a bit counterintuitive at first, but an obstacle in your path easier to recognize than an obstacle that moves into your path.

Same in France : red is red, unless you see a green right arrow. Turn right "if nobody coming" ? But, if there is nobody coming, why not go ahead also ? To my taste, turn right on red makes no sense - it is dangerous, and you would always be considered responsible in case of an accident !

@sourcererseven3858

2 жыл бұрын

There is no "go straight on red" because there would be many more things to look out for. To go right, you have to only look to the left (in the US where there basically are no pedestrians) and have every possible collision covered: those going straight from the road crossing yours and those turning left from the opposite direction of your own road. To go straight, you have to simutaneously check for left and right sides: Other straight-drivers from each direction of the perpendicular road, left-turners from the opposite direction of your own, left-turners from left, AND right-turners from your right. Instead of checking 2 lanes from one direction, you have to check 5 lanes from two directions, which you can't do at the same time. It's only when you introduce pedestrians that you also need to check two additional "lanes" of pedestrian traffic if you want to turn right on red.

@homeape.

2 жыл бұрын

it's funny, one can easily tell you're French by the way you use spaces before :, !, and ?

@bugfisch7012

2 жыл бұрын

@@homeape. Thought the same - well, I got the same issue with German, though - i tend to capitalize Nouns, even in English =D

@homeape.

2 жыл бұрын

@@bugfisch7012 Life hack instead of capitalising English nouns, just stop capitalising in general, even in german it's "okay" to do online

@blacky_Ninja

2 жыл бұрын

@@homeape. Yeah, you really shouldn‘t do that. It might become a bad habit and that looks really unprofessional in the job world if you don‘t write with at least basic grammar.

Many bigger cities in europe were "bulldozed for the car" in the last century. All cities (including most american) used to be walkable before the car really took off. But most places in europe (especially the netherlands) went back to pedestrian and bike friendly infrastructure instead of a car centric design. I really, really recommend watching a few videos of "not just bikes" on the topic, i really enjoyed them =)

@JamanWerSonst

2 жыл бұрын

"Bulldozed" by the war, rebuilt for the car.

@gisobo

2 жыл бұрын

I was just about to write pretty much the same. 😆 And while the US are worse, Germany's infrastructure is way too car centric.

@Nuggetmonk

2 жыл бұрын

biking in the netherlands is so much fun . in germany there are way to less "bikelanes" so the bikers end up using the walkway then switching apruptly to the streets n stuff....i hate it.

@beardiemom

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I kind of wish that more German cities had their infrastructure focused on pedestrians and cyclists instead of cars, because it would motivate more people to not use their car as much and it would allow to keep old cities more "intact" or "original", if you want, because old roads were not built with 2 cars being able to pass by each other in mind.

@LenweTaralom77

2 жыл бұрын

In germany we can see a change in policies, especially in the south-west (at least that's what I know of). A lot of the major cities here had huge infrastructure modernizations including bike lanes and signposts specifically for bike routes, as well as more frequent public transport. I can't really speak for the rest of the country, but we seem to be moving forward, in an ever so slow, german way

Another big reason why I am very happy about this rule is: a lot of bicycle and motorcycle drivers get simply overlooked in the US when drivers turn right.

Here’s another bit of cultural history for you: the green arrow indicating that you are allowed to turn right on red originated in East Germany, and it is much more common there. It’s use spread to Western Germany after reunification as part of the process harmonizing laws between the two parts of the newly unified country. Based on what I have seen on the roads, it hasn’t really caught on such that it has been widely implemented.

@InTeCredo

2 жыл бұрын

I saw only one green arrow in Erlangen and no other cities, towns, villages, etc. in Bavaria have the green arrow.

@wernerruf7761

2 жыл бұрын

@@InTeCredo Bullshit, there are a lot of them in Munich.

@inerdt

2 жыл бұрын

In Frankfurt, I always suspect they only exist in extremely obscure places just for driving instructors to be able to show them to their students :D

@christianfath2653

2 жыл бұрын

The main reason is that when Germany was reunited in 1990, the “green arrow” quickly spilled over into western Germany. However, too many uninformed western German drivers did never learn that stopping and yielding was still mandatory. After an increase in accidents, many towns and cities discontinued the use of that green arrow. Not so in the East where this rule had always been taught.

@Gringomaniac

2 жыл бұрын

@@InTeCredo We initially had two of those in Schwabach. One was removed though because the crossing was used by pedestrians a lot and as it entered a rather busy street, there really have been problems with drivers not looking enough for those pedestrians. The other one is still discussed a lot for the same problems, but with a lot less pedestrians. So for now it'll stay.

And there is a reason for the traffic lights being positioned where they are as well, granted they could do a better job concerning the visibility (smaller lower lights for example more often). First of all, we are trying to have equal rules across all of the EU. That makes sense, since driver licenses need to be valid crossing borders, and we do cross borders all the time, as you will certainly have noticed and done yourself. Well, you might think, how does that explain where the lights are being positioned ? Well, in many cases, I admit, it really looks stupid, but, as opposed to the typical 4 way intersection we typically see in the USA, there are so many different intersection types in Europe that it would simply be impossible to know which light is yours. It would mean greater chaos and thus a threat to safety in quite a number of cities and villages, especially the smaller and historical ones. And we have enough of those, everywhere in Europe. Having the traffic lights across the intersection makes perfect sense in the USA where almost entire traffic infrastructure is relatively new (compared to Europe, where one can literally find intersections that are hundreds and sometimes a thousand or more years old) and was designed with the car in mind. In Europe we'd run into so many headaches that the current system is and will remain the best compromise, even if it means a pain in the neck, quite literally.

@sontyphalt45

2 жыл бұрын

I really like the french solution for this, they simply have a small traffic light, kind of similar to a bike trafic light but mirroring the regular one wich is positioned so the drivers of cars infront the trafic light dont have to bend their neck and can just look at the smaler one

@BlissLovePeace

2 жыл бұрын

@@sontyphalt45 You can find that in many cities in Germany as well. Just not everywhere. But yes, I agree, it makes the most sense in my opinion.

@countluke2334

2 жыл бұрын

It makes totally sense having the traffic light in front of the junction. This is where you are, and after taking a left turn on a green light you don't have to pass a red light, which is utterly confusing.

@mikedamat

2 жыл бұрын

@@countluke2334 It also stops motorists from pulling into the crosswalk which is super common in NA

Regarding the location of traffic lights: The US style only works well on regular 4-way intersections. But here in Europe cities have been evolving since the middle ages or even earlier. We have lots of intersections where 5, 6, 7 roads meet at wonky angles or strange offsets relative to each other - there it would be hard to tell which traffic light would be the one for you. That said: If it's unambiguous traffic lights _are_ in fact often placed on the opposite side or above the center of the intersection (in addition to the lights on the nearby corner).

It's even more important with cyclists in mind. They are faster than pedestrians and thus after looking omne way and then the other, there may be one where you were sure everything was clear before.

@magnusamann6806

2 жыл бұрын

Although cyclists aren't supposed to drive on the left side (and would thus come only from left). Many cyclists do this, but you can get a ticket for ghost driving on the wrong pavement...

@michan8093

2 жыл бұрын

@@magnusamann6806 Not necessarily true as there are many bicycle paths that are supposed to be used in both directions but are only one side of the street.

@patrickj

2 жыл бұрын

@@magnusamann6806 The main concern is not cyclists coming from the left, but from behind you, wanting to go straight on, thus crossing your path when you're turning right.

@monsieursoif9444

2 жыл бұрын

@@patrickj those cyclists would also stand in front of a red light though. So cyclists wanting to go straight on wouldn't happen in that case.

@patrickj

2 жыл бұрын

@@monsieursoif9444 Depends, larger intersections with bike lanes on the road often have separate lights for cyclists that turn green early. And separated bike lanes on the side walk usually share a green phase with pedestrians.

We just witnessed 'learning in action'. Not understanding or correcting, learning something new that helps you see the world you live in in a slightly different light. Few things more beautiful 🤗

Here in Ireland we drive on the left and it's very much prohibited to turn left on red. Thankfully we've followed the European example and value the lives of our pedestrians and cyclists. :)

Pretty simple answer as you came up with: Bicycles and Pedestrians ! More so in the old western part, as in the former GDR turning right on red was not uncommon. The amount of accidents with both types of traffic participants is even statistically still too high (ofc any is too much already), therefor I doubt that we will see a further increase on these "green arrows" at traffic lights. There is a reason trucks are supposed to have an electronic assistant für turning (it is in the books of even becoming mandatory i think - decades ago since i was driving a truck myself), as streets are very narrow in older towns - Berlin is here very atypical here.

@dnocturn84

2 жыл бұрын

The green arrow sign is more common where I live (East Germany), but when it is used, it is always placed on intersections with very good overview of traffic, especially bike and pedestrian traffic, and it is usually never used in places with bad overview through obstacles (buildings, trees, etc.). Drivers who are used to them (and trained to use them in driving school) know, that they have to make their turn very carefully on those places - and that they are not the ones with priority in traffic, when using them. Numbers of accidents on those places is actually lower in the closest city nearby, than on normal busy intersections. But I do witness a lot of close calls on thoses places by drivers who are not used to this rule, especially from West Germany. Many either don't recognize this sign at all (which is just annoying, but harmless, until locals honk at them and sometimes cause strange and sometimes dangerous reactions), or they use it wrong. This sign works like a STOP sign, you have to drive close to the stop line, rest there for ca. 3 seconds, watch out for traffic and if there is a gap for you to make your turn slowly while also watching for pedestrians and bikes. The other direction has priority, you're just secondary and require a safe gap for you to show up. It's often misinterpreted by them as a green light (maybe because it's a green arrow and creates a connection to green lights for them???) and they believe they have priority and make their turn without caring for the others.

@martinohnenamen6147

2 жыл бұрын

@@dnocturn84 Completely agree on the second paragraph and my observation as well in a western German city ;) It is more treated like a yield or even green arrow than what you described the rule actually are.

@stephanweinberger

2 жыл бұрын

@@dnocturn84 Maybe the sign should be changed, e.g. to include a 'yield' or 'stop' sign (or just the shape symbolizing it) with the green arrow - so that drivers are reminded they don't have priority.

@PeterHendricks59

2 жыл бұрын

You can't add any more give way signs to the lights, as pretty much all of them already have them. They are observed only when the lights are not functioning

@stephanweinberger

2 жыл бұрын

@@PeterHendricks59 I meant a redesign of the arrow-sign itself, to make it more clear that you have to stop/yield before turning and it's not the same as a green-arrow light (where you can be sure that there is no interfering traffic).

You NEVER waste my time when you manage to put a smile on my face. Happy weekend and may the Sunday bells wake you up early . :)

@religiohominilupus5259

2 жыл бұрын

Don't know about the Sunday bells but you're spot on about a smile never being a waste of time. 😁 Hope y'all are well!

@veranicus6696

2 жыл бұрын

Siigned

Always appreciate the extra work involved in your videos with all the cuts from sentence to sentence at different locations. Top quality editing & creativity when lots of YT creators would typically be content to do a simple talk to camera in a room. Never a waste of time to watch your videos !

Nothing sets off my nostalgia like German church bells. I always thought that American cities, being newer and their streets usually laid out in a perfect grid with 90 degree angles at the corners, were well suited to right-turn-on-red traffic. German intersections tended to be less regular with visibility often blocked by buildings, trees, etc. I live in Japan which also has no right-turn-on-red rule. Making a turn is often a hair-raising experience when a bicycle darts out of nowhere into the crosswalk and you have to slam on the brakes. Officially, you aren't supposed to bicycle on the sidewalks but the police never enforces that rule and even encourages the practice. WHY JAPAN? WHY? WHY DO YOU DO THAT? Oh... my wife just gave me some Apfelkuchen to calm me down. Mmm, mmm...

@caciliawhy5195

2 жыл бұрын

There are many places in the US where you can't make a turn on read saying America is showing your ignorance the same way Americans who say Bavaria is like Germany are showing their ignorance.

@Cowboy-in-a-Pink-Stetson

2 жыл бұрын

"Right turn on Red" in Japan might be even more of a problem seeing as how you guys tend to drive on the left. :-)

@gigibenea3529

2 жыл бұрын

😉🍷

@JAM-65

2 жыл бұрын

Ahh, yes the sound of the Church bells. Every time i hear the church bells, I think of Germany.

@prieten49

2 жыл бұрын

@@Cowboy-in-a-Pink-Stetson Yes, I wanted to write "left-turn-on-red" and give an explanation, but I thought that would just end up confusing people. Good catch though. I was wondering whether anyone would notice.

You will find the best argument against having this rule in Germany by observing the behavior of drivers at lights where the green arrow sign allows right turns on red. It is generally treated as a green arrow light and drivers sail through without stopping. You can consider yourself lucky if they even slow down. My experience driving in the States was that people generally did stop before turning. I know of several intersections in Hamburg where the green arrow sign was removed because of the unwillingness of German drivers to observe this requirement.

@emjayay

2 жыл бұрын

I think if the light is red to turn right you should think of it as a Stop sign.

@sugonmad2402

2 жыл бұрын

You're required by law to stop before following the green arrow at a traffic light. Just did my drivers license and this was one of the questions I wondered about, because never saw anyone do it.

@DannewK

2 жыл бұрын

Ist aber total nervig, muss man mittlerweile richtig oft warten, wo man vor kurzem noch fahren konnte.. Nur weil Leute nicht wissen wies funktioniert

@aschneider8912

2 жыл бұрын

I almost failed my driving test because I didn't stop at the green arrow so your observation checks out lol

@msar7044

2 жыл бұрын

Another thing in this context to be observed: On a priority for drivers from the right intersection (rechts vor links) many a driver turning right just sail around the corner since they do not have anyone to yield for - ignoring pedestrians.

5:30..."I seem to have wasted your time." Like the time wasted with the bells at the beginning. The prelude to a parallel. The prelude to Art. TSGO

@bartholvangent3225

2 жыл бұрын

I rather enjoyed the church bells though. It's kind of calming. That is if you don't want to record speaking for an intro. Hahaha

Sure, the green arrow is a thing in Germany, usually as an additional traffic light instead of a sign (as shown in your example), but whatever. It is rare. BUT: That is only the case, because the "turn right on red" thingy is usually solved in a different form: By having a traffic lane for right turns separated from the entire traffic light! This right-turn-lane then ususally crosses the pedestrian's lane before you actually get to the intersection. By separating the crossing of pedestrians to that of other traffic, you basically guarantee enough time for car drivers to look for pedestrians and cyclists. ...and for the relief of every german heart: No exceptions have to be made for it to work.

TO YOUR LAST COMPLAIN: So Nalf, now it's time to rethink about your statement "I will always find the traffic lights behind the intersection stupid"! It's scientifically proven that this method causes less deadly accidents. Human beings way more often overlook signs that they will pass in future (after crossing the insection) than the signs they are passing in the actual moment (before the intersection). I guess it's due to the stupiness of mankind :-D But I agree, traffic lights behind the intersection are much more comfortable to see (no neck breaking at all). Best regards

I'll try to highlight two points. First: There were attempts to introduce the "Green Arrow" for right-turners, as was pretty normal in the former GDR. But in the field test this turned out to be fatal, at least in places where there is a bicycle path next to the pedestrian path. A pedestrian can stop within one step in dangerous situations. A bicycle cannot do this, especially since cyclists and pedestrians have the green light in this situation. In principle, children are allowed to use the pedestrian path with their bike and the number of accidents with right-turns is one of the highest in road traffic and it is increasing all the time. The red traffic light for right-turners guarantees that a vehicle is really stationary and thus increases safety. There are more and more cyclists, especially in large cities, and the law of the "green arrow" dates from a time when cyclists were not as prominent as it is now. Point two: Guests from abroad often claim that Germans love rules. I'm not sure if the Germans love rules, but I agree with people when they say the Germans definitely follow the rules. Waiting at a red light, even when there is little or no traffic, usually has the following reason. If you cross the street at a green traffic light, you are automatically covered by the "Haftpflichtversicherung" of other road users. In particular the motorized road users. It is not allowed to drive a motorized vehicle with a high penalty if you have not taken out Haftpflichtversicherung. In the case of an uninsured or an expired insurance, the authorities may put the vehicle out of service immediately on the spot. If a pedestrian crosses a street when the traffic light is red, he automatically loses insurance cover and in the event of an accident he is at least partially responsible. Personally, I have slowed down my life so much that I always (almost always) have these minutes to wait for the green light. It gives me a feeling of security and peace of mind...

@seven9766

2 жыл бұрын

See, we germans don't particularly like having rules that hinder our doing, but we gladly accept rules put in place to guarantee individual rights don't get trampled on. With turn right on red, the US decided that cars going around a city are more important than pedestrians or bicycles. Germany decided that enforcing people's right to cross an intersectiom safely is well worth some cars waiting. Which incidentally leads to many occasion where going from a to b is done fastest not by car, but instead either by public transport and walking, or just riding a bicycle. Which, considering the use of resources in this world, is probably a good thing.

@physicalistd

2 жыл бұрын

In many areas of the former GDR these green arrows are still in use tho, and I've seen them in places around the country where pedestrian & bike traffic is low or nonexistant. I think it's much less common in the south than in the north, however. A lot of it has to do with what people are used to; to most in former West Germany the concept was somewhat alien so it is much easier to make (potentially fatal!) mistakes. But the green arrow is still like a Stop sign in principle, so you're supposed to look for traffic from all sides including bicyclists and pedestrians coming from behind. Who you have to watch out for as well when you try to turn right on a regular green traffic lights - which is still one of the most common causes of accidents with pedestrians still -, so it's not really that different. The "safest" but also more costly solution (time as well as electricity) is the good ol' green-arrow traffic light that lights up when you're guaranteed to be able to make a turn without endangering either oncoming traffic nor pedestrians, but that's technically redundant and usually reserved for the most dangerous or tricky intersections. (There is a special one for left-turns as well but that's mainly used so left-turning drivers know they can - and should! - clear the intersection NOW. Not sure how common that one is outside Germany).

@TheMrsMane

2 жыл бұрын

Aber in dem Fall über den er redet hätten die Fußgänger doch genauso rot?

@physicalistd

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheMrsMane muss nicht sein - entlang der Fahrtrichtung oft ja, je nach Ampelschaltung, aber quer dazu nicht unbedingt.

@kathrinbauer5358

2 жыл бұрын

Regarding the relationship between Germans and rules: I have lived abroad and became quite aware of how my attitude differed from locals elsewhere (but did not feel that different from other Germans). I get almost personally offended if I have to follow rules that I don't understand (e.g. wearing masks in open spaces even if there is nobody around). On the other hand, I shake my head in disbelief and contempt at transgressions of rules that in my opinion save lives (e.g. drink driving, driving too fast in residential areas). I am even quite annoyed when people disrespect rules that are supposed to safeguard the rights of weaker members of society (e.g. not stopping at a stop sign because there are "only" pedestrians waiting). These moments are when I feel most cliché German. I feel entitled to get a sound explanation for any rule that interferes with my personal freedom, but if I get the point of a rule I silently condemn everybody that disobeys it without proper reason. Maybe this is a bit dramatic, but that's my summary of my (probably Germans') attitude to rules.

Take the Eureka moments when they occur. That takes guts and intellect and curiosity to ponder and share. Made my morning:)

I like the tense build up towards the resolution at the end :D

Funfact about the traffic light at 3:25 : This traffic light can be found in Dresden and is red for over 30 years by now. During the maintenance they also change the yellow and green bulbs, so technically these would work as well.

@LeoTheDarkAngel

2 жыл бұрын

That's interesting! I was wondering why there was a traffic light AND a green arrow, if you're only allowed to turn right anyway. Is it some kind of attraction by now?

In my opinion there is nothing more interesting and satisfying than to watch someone learn something new... this is why I like to watch KZread so much as there are so many content creators out there who are exploring and learning new things. It is especially fun when we can practically see the moment of realisation as the knowledge is absorbed and fully understood. Thank you for a great video.

The fact that you don't have more than 100k subscribers yet is beyond me, your content is great, I love videos like these! Things that make you reflect and such is really good~

A few thoughts on this from a German(and former professional truck driver) who lives in the US. Firstly about the German "No right turn on red" Well, it is not quite correct anymore. On intersections that are believed to be appropriate you will see a green arrow surrounded by a white border next to the regular light, it usually is not illuminated but made from a reflective material. Approaching these kind of intersections you may take a right turn on red. Obviously you must make sure that pedestrians and cyclists are not cut off. Secondly about my thoughts on this issue in the US: The main problem is that every state can implement their own rules about it. In NJ (where I live) you can turn right on red unless otherwise posted but this is not the case in every state. So if in doubt one better sits to avoid violating state traffic rules. I also found that in practicality the interpretation of the rule varies. Technically the vehicle must come to a full stop and may proceed if safe but if you do that, you will undoubtedly hear the inpatient driver behind you honking at you. In contrast my lady friend got a ticket for not coming to a complete stop although there was no traffic at all. So the policing is inconsistent as well. Lastly (and this my main problem): At least in NJ a (possible) sign stating "No Turn on Red" is oftentimes placed poorly and if you are in an unfamiliar area you may violate it because you never saw it, not because you were in a hurry. A few personal observations: You criticize placement of traffic lights in Germany and I can relate. However here many lights, traffic signs are hidden behind bushes or trees that are never pruned or (my biggest peeve) the ugly electric wires that run all over the towns and cities. Looks like the whole country is a cattle ranch with huge cows who need very high fences. These things obscure many a sign. My final thought is the excessive use of written language. It took me a while to understand "(Railroad, etc) X-ing" and some signs are of so wordy that one would really have to stop in order to read it all. Same thing with the parking restrictions. First you have to figure out if the sign talks about times that you are allowed to park or whether it mentions times when parking is prohibited. And then it will give very confusing instructions: Mon, Wed, Fri 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM for authorized vehicles only... It does not say which are the authorized vehicles and nobody knows what 12:00 PM is anyway...

As a primarily pedestrian that has to cross such a traffic light with a green arrow, I cannot count the occasions where the driver (to my left), simply did not see me or even plainly ignored, despite looking in my general direction. They look to the red light above me, see the green arrow, and hit the gas more or less with a surprised "oh great I can drive" reaction and throwing caution to the wind in the act. I really dislike that green arrow. However, if the "right on red" rule was establish everywhere, instead of a few exceptions with a green arrow, there __might__ be a greater incentive for a driver to actually check both left and the right for pedestrians, since they would be more used to it. It's the exceptional green arrow that annoys me.

This was a fantastic video! Thanks NALF! 👏👏👏👏👏👏

Alway‘s good to see you NALF, even if it is for a complaint on a topic that turns out to be a good idea. I live in the Northeast US where you encounter a lot more No Turn on Red intersections. Coming from Colorado, I too feel annoyed by this but have gotten used to it over the years.

Haha when I was in the US I always wondered «why is right on red a thing» and I found it very stupid. Still do, even in the car and even when I feel like «it would be safe to go now». These kinds if rules always overshoot a little towards more safety than necessary. I always thought that was obvious. Haha obviously not. Cool video and great to see the insight, change and everything. I very appreciate that the video was still made and uploaded. A lot of folks would have probably just scrapped the concept.

@Sshooter444

2 жыл бұрын

Wasting my life sitting in a car when no peds, cars, bikes or anyone else is affected by my right turn...no thanks

There is an interesting KZread channel which explains the problems with "car friendly" cities. Btw, you are allowed to turn right if there is a small green arrow. But those are only for crossings which either don't involve pedestrians (because the pedestrian crossing is elsewhere) or because the pedestrians have a red light anyway.

@TheKorbi

2 жыл бұрын

Do you mean Not Just Bikes?

@swanpride

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheKorbi That's the one!

Really like your short witty excursions into German habits and their effect on you. Greetings from Hamburg (Germany).

I loved your strolls through Bad Bentheim! 😀

When driving in the US, especially in the big cities, I have a near constant panic that I will hit a pedestrian or someone on a bicycle. It's not a good system in that regard. Driving requires constant vigilance to make sure there is nobody in the crosswalk or coming up from behind when turning, whether the light is red or not. In addition, the fact that pedestrians and bicyclists don't bother to follow the rules make it all the worse. And the fact that they weren't following the rules is little consolation if you've just struck and severely wounded or killed someone.

Even as a german i learned Something New today. I live in an area where it is more common to encounter even tho i'm loving in the Western part. And i never understood why some traffic Lights have green arrows and some dont, even on the same intersection (that on in particular is near a school). Now i noticed that the green arrows are mounted on the lanes where it is impossible to encounter pedesteians other than someone "offroading" by foot. Its like an epithany and now it all makes sense. Also it takes some serous balls/good character to research Something bothering you and then on top of that be able to change your opinion. ^^

Hi! In Portugal we have the same rule! When I was taking lessons for my driver’s license, my teacher explained to us the logic/reason behind that rule… but I must confess that I had forgotten it, so thanks for the reminder 😉. Have a nice day.

It takes a big man to see the bigger picture and come round to see things from a different perspective. Kudos to you sir, for keeping an open mind.

There are a whole lot more pedestrians in DE compared to the US. I bet, you yourself walk much more around town in Schwäbisch Hall than you ever did in Portland, right?

@Xmaslightsallyear

2 жыл бұрын

That was part of the point of the video. 👍

@nejdro1

2 жыл бұрын

You have to differentiate between suburban Portland and the city of Portland it’s self. The city of Portland is set up for pedestrians and bicycles

@mikedamat

2 жыл бұрын

@@nejdro1 Not really

@nejdro1

2 жыл бұрын

@@mikedamat And you are a Portlander?

There was a time where Germany tried the method "turn right on red-light" like a stop sign. It didn't work out. Too much honking, loads of accidents, pedestrians being run over....so they went back to WAIT until your light turns green aka time wasting....you should travel the Netherlands (not Amsterdam), you would love it there....promise. Even the church bells are more FUN !!!!

It's so much fun listening to you!

You always come with your NALF wisdom to explain the world around you, us, and no Nick, it wasn’t a waist of time your f…. awesome, as always great vid keep them coming!! 😜

On my usual routes when I run, there is a junction with a green arrow. I often experienced that drivers do not stop completely to see if someone is coming, but instead simply drive through as if the traffic lights were green. This has put me and other people in dangerous situations more than once. I think that many drivers here in Germany are overwhelmed with this green arrow and the rules that go with it.

Another important reason: children up to 8 years of age have to drive on the footpath and can suddenly drive onto the street if they want to cross it when it is green (in Germany, pedestrians get green 1-2 seconds earlier - before the cars turning right!). They do not pay attention to cars turning right!

genius, this one. well composed! thank you! I could feel myself embracing the rule as thwarting the auto-driver's convenience was emerging as a part of it lol it made sense after that.

Totally agree with you especially for the lights positioning I hate that so much 😅 It would be much better if light would be on the over side. You could see them much better

We do have a “Green Arrow Sign” though that is attached to the traffic light at intersections, not all though. That sign allows you to turn right on a red traffic light if the street is free and there are no pedestrians that want to cross on your right.

2 жыл бұрын

3:23 (I know the urge to comment right away before watching the whole video. I have to fight it every time too. :D)

@Lone-ws7we

2 жыл бұрын

@ Oh man, I thought I finished watching the video. Didn't even realise it wasn't over xD

@jochenkraus7016

2 жыл бұрын

Afaik that green arrow came from the GDR and was introduced in whole Germany after reunification.

Absolut best way to waste your time on a saturday🤩. Thanks Nalf 😊 By the way, if you want to learn more about differences in american and european cities, I can very much recommend you the channel "not just bikes". It is super informative 👍and can blow your mind 🤯

@thomasthorson4120

2 жыл бұрын

I absolutely second that! That channel mostly compares America with the Netherlands - and as a German I am growing more and more envious of the Dutch...

@ceedo9703

2 жыл бұрын

@@thomasthorson4120 but the German city's aren't much different from the dutch ones. I mean germany becomes more and more bycicle friendly. Over the last 20 years happened so much regarding to this topic.

@caciliawhy5195

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you

@thomasthorson4120

2 жыл бұрын

@@ceedo9703 Don't get me wrong, bicycle friendlyness and walkability in German cities are pretty great, especially compared to the US. But the Dutch are true masters at this - we in Germany can learn a lesson or two from them... BTW complaining is kinda ingrained in the german DNA ;-)

Yep. American here in Grenoble France. Same rule here in France. Yeah, what you found makes sense. Don't know how it is Schwäbisch Hall but here in Grenoble, it's not just the design of the streets or pedestrians per se but there are so many different forms of travel, trams, buses, bikes (of every variety), scooters (again of every variety, skateboards, rollersckates, etc. and they're coming from all directions. It can be overwhelming sometimes. The reason you found for the rule makes a lot of sense in such an environment. That being said, there are parts of the city on the outskirts that would put America to shame in terms of being car-oriented and pedestrian unfriendly.

Thanks dude. I guess that's not just a cultural history, but also a small but important nugget on city planning. But even that's not the main thing. The main thing I learned from this video is that I should gently inquire of things b4 marking something good/bad/etc in my mind.

Haha yes, there are so many rules in Germany. I love it and hate it at the same time. I still love Germany though ;)

@zimbo65a

2 жыл бұрын

sweet....and that out of the mouth of a rules-free Japanese... :D I love Japanese because their rules and their traditions. You have more rules about taking off your shoes than we about driving a car! :D

Bike lanes and a shitload more pedestrians then you'll ever find in the US. It's simple. I'm with you on the placement of traffic lights! 🤷‍♂️☺️

Your channel is the BOMB NALF; it is informative, sincere, to the point, fair and fun! Thanks. A German.

Nice Video and reflection on Traffic rules. Do you know the White Ghost Bikes at intersections / Traffic Lights ? Nice Pictures of the Highway, but you Made These ( mountain- surrounded ) Highway sequence in italy ( Südtirol) heading southwards. Its so nice down there. Anyway i Like your Videos.

If you understand germany, thats a no-brainer: The rule states: Red means stop. Exceptions of a rule are to be marked separately. So either we have this special arrow or separate lights for different directions. Except for the example picture you showed, there really is german rules making a Clown of themselves.😂

Oh Nalf, we have a lot of nonsense rules. The green turn arrow was unknown in western germany until the reunionifucation. In eastern germany it was very usual.

@tuneskramer69

2 жыл бұрын

Is this the reason BMW drivers don't use there turn signals

@greenknitter

2 жыл бұрын

The one time the West follows something from the East. Pity it had to be that and not something more useful and safe.

@armadspengler2717

2 жыл бұрын

@@tuneskramer69 I wish it were only the BMW drivers... Using the turn signals seems to be an incredible burden for every 2-3 drivers out of 10 I encounter everyday, so they avoid it to the most part.

0:12 i was there, in that church. ate my lunch in the restaurant behind you. but when i was there, it was raining cats and dogs.... you can`t have it all, i guess. still, a beautiful little city.

You never waste my time Nalf!

Turning right on red would be breaking a rule. The rule is that red means stop. This is how it was explained to me in Saxony.

@ninjaz5736

2 жыл бұрын

Unless of course there is a little green right arrow next to the red light, because just like the German language, there's always more rules that change how things should be done Edit- jut got to the bit where he mentions it, really should have watched the video before commenting XD

In the east german states are „grüne Pfeile“ on a lot of traffic lights. You have to stop at red but are allowed to turn right. So the ex DDR likes it the US way:)

@anja6983

2 жыл бұрын

We have that in west Germany too. Not on all traffic lights, but we use it too…

@haviiithelegogunner907

2 жыл бұрын

@@anja6983 vor der Wiedervereinigung gab es das in der BRD überhaupt nicht. Jetzt auch nur sporadisch. Im Osten hat das jede zweite Kreuzung. ;)

@anja6983

2 жыл бұрын

@@haviiithelegogunner907 weird isn’t it ? Since the Americans were here in the west … But yeah I agree… not many traffic lights here have it. And they don’t have Traffic signs. They have a „special“ green traffic light (green arrow) for it.

@henningbartels6245

2 жыл бұрын

@@anja6983 there are only a few "green arrows" in Western Germany. It never fully caught on ... they were installed very hesitantly and sometimes taken down after a while, because some West German drivers didn't know, what to do with it. Actually, this topic is so symptomatic for the whole "unification" process: almost everything changed in the Eastern part, while little has changed in the Western part and even if some Eastern things are good, they have are hard time to be introduced and to be accepted in the Western part.

I extremely liked the turn on red every time i visited the states. But as you learned, here in Europe there are more pedestrians than in the states. I also notices over the years at the few green arrow intersections we have, where turn on red is allowed in Germany, the majority of the drivers don't adhere to the rules connected to the turn on red: First stopping at the stopping line, checking traffic and when free advance. Most of them just immediately drive almost into the intersection an several turn on red even with traffic coming from the left (not immediately but so close to cause them to brake), let alone checking for pedestrians crossing on their green light. So basically they treat it like a yield but traffic lights are mostly on more busy roads so that doesn't really work well.

Well done mate 👍🏻📈💯

You become more and more germanized :)

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

Sigh ©️

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

@@mojojim6458 (Second attempt) Nick will be an American forever but with strong "German" and "Italian" qualities, whatever those are.

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

@@hannahanna649 In his case: love for German food...and Italian organization.

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

@@mojojim6458 Isn't that charming?

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

@@hannahanna649 Charming...or alarming.

When watching Nalf's videos, I seldom pay attention to main topic that interests the majority. Instead, I focus on small gems that spring to my attention. But I have noticed something interesting in two videos which attracted the attention of a lot of people. First, we have horse meat in Italy. All of you must admit that Nalf had you just where he wanted you. So many of you were eager to testify that Germany is superior to Italy when it comes to horse meat. After all, there's so very much to be proud of here. All that was missing were the street addresses of the butchers and their hours of operation. Then, we have Strasbourg. Would anyone care to count the number of complaints about the city being located in France? The long, twisted history of that city was recounted in detail. And for what purpose? To prove that Nalf was still in Germany. Again, he had you where he wanted you. Thinking back to Charlemagne's reign (not too far a stretch, given the evidence amassed by others of you for historical proofs), his empire can be viewed as a central bulk with two wings, one west and one south. And the further one travels west from the Rhine or south from the Alps, the better the food gets. It improves to the point where it finally deserves the appellation cuisine. Mere chance? I think not.

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

In my opinion it has to do with catholicism, countries or areas that are predominantly catholic show more joy of life and people openly enjoy the pleasures of our earthly existence. They can afterwards confess, repent and hope to be forgiven. Protestant countries use to despise the art of the cuisine, and they have no carnival! This is why northern Germany, where I come from, has no really delicious food except the fresh fish. As I live in Austria now, I don't have the fish but so many more delicious.food.

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

@@hannahanna649 I am a lover of fish, too. I don't eat beef or chicken or pork. I've noticed that people I know in Germany who don't live near the sea don't like fish.

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

@@mojojim6458 Fish is not considered as "real" food by many people. And they don't know how to prepare it. So we enjoy freh fish every time we are in Southern Europe.

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

@@hannahanna649 My German-heritage mother had no idea whatsoever how to prepare fish. LOL She would wrap it in foil and put it in the oven. It always ended up tough and dry. I figured out how to prepare seafood when I lived in Atlanta, and had to cook for myself...for the first time in my life. I'm happy I did.

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

@@mojojim6458 Wrapping up fish in a foil is a good cooking technique, but don't forget lemon, olive oil and fresh herbs und take it out after 15 minutes, then it will be very good.

I wholeheartedly agree on the positioning of the trafficlights. My visit to the states was a revelation on that front.

You made me learn and laugh. Thank you.

Haha einfach klasse Nalfs Humor und Philosophie.The time was wasted perfectly. ;-)

Loved this! 😊💚

Where did u get that photo from at 3:24. That's exactly the building i was working in for 2 years :D Love your videos. Keep it up!

Yes, those long walks really are a great thing to clear ones head. - Literally walking it off, whatever "it" might be. And skipping cars and busses and metros etc. is also a great way to explore a place. Stray from "the usual places"; get away from the postcard-views and places and go and explore; find the everyday places people go to or pass through. There are so many things to see ^-^ As far as my personal best goes: Recently, I was in Vienna for a while and found myself fleeing the city with all the people. I didn't know there are official city hikes - but there are. And boy, they are great! Some lead up to viewing platforms with an awesome view and on a sunny morning I set out to complete route 1a (+getting to the starting point of the hike). It was about 45k steps. I'm also sorry Vienna - but while you're best known for Café-Haus culture and the sights within the city, those city hikes will always be my personal highlight (along with visiting friends & going to see a musical ^^). 😊

Making me smile iś never a waste of time, Thank You!

A more pedestrian-friendly suggestion is to have countdowns at crosswalks, instead of the red/green situation walkers have to do deal with. Even a flashing red would be better. As a driver, the fraction of a second hint you get before the light turns green is great for getting in gear.

I'm french but I learned how to drive when I lived in the province of Québec (not Montréal). I asked myself the same questions when I came back in France and just like you I realized it made sense! Plus red lights are less frequent because of the roundabouts. The only thing I REALLY miss from driving in Québec is the flashing green lights indicating it's safe to turn left because no one is allowed to go foward. It is so much less scary! You got the priority so you won't get stuck in the middle of the intersection and it's less risky. Yes it makes the stops a lil' longer but I don't care anymore, safety first!

One of your best videos! 👍 (and your standard is high, no joking)

About the positions of the traffic lights at 2:09 We need those on medieval street layouts, for example at 3- or 5way intersections with crazy angles like 30° and 200°. The American way only works on a 90° grid.

i like nallfs videos, so funny and entertaning ^^

The „writing“ and dramatic line up for this video was better than some AAA movies 😂

Good scripted and edited Video about this philosophical Question. Love your effort!

very good point! the positioning of the lights annoys me too, btw. ^^

I envy you a bit for these moments of revelation you keep having. Traffic is a difficult topic here in Germany. When I was a little boy, we turned left in a differently than we do now. Thr first car trying to turn left passed the first car trying to turn left on the other side of the road and then, facing the intire, standing line of cars trying to turn left on the other side, had to somehow get through that line of standing cars. The first car in that line of course faced the same task. THAT was a mess. Turning left was changed to the american way of turning left about 35 years ago, and now we turn left before the cars turning left on the other side.That works a lot better.

@Nick, i can give you a reason why right on red can be bad, even in the US. I love right on red, i do miss it when i visit family in germany sometimes. if you are at a busy intersection with a redlight, and the road from the right is even more busy, the right turners fill up the spots while you wait to cross. when the light turns, you have nowhere to go! Here in Atlanta this is a HUGE problem, resulting in people entering the intersection anyway, and thus blocking the intersection for cross traffic. but overall i like it.

#1 just had 23.000 steps on my watch yesterday. #2 I can remember the introduction of the green arrow sign in western Germany, it originated from the DDR. It to this day still confuses some drivers who mistake it for the green arrow traffic light and don't yeald or take caution while driving into the intersection, others still don't know the meaning as lights come before signs and these signs are as you pointed out very uncommen.

The traffic lights have to be so "close", because in traffic rules you crossed a red light when you passed beyond the traffic light, and not the white line in of. thats why in most cases the traffic light comes before a pedestrian crossing or a crossing road etc. What I can remember from my drivers license school

In the netherlands there are bike lanes and sidewalks right next to you so on turning right you will be crossing up to two lanes with traffic going straight trough.

here in eastern germany you have way way more of the green arrow on black background that allows you to turn right on red. but as always it comes with a lot of rules and regulations. eg you have to come to a complete stop on the halt line, then you have to look left and right for pedestrians who cross perpendicular, then you can slowly drive forward then again halt on the corner and look for cars coming from the left AND pedestrians who wanna cross parallel to you. if everythings clear then you can drive. and yes every single car has to do this, even if you're behind someone who just did all those steps.

What I really miss in Europe is the 4-way-stop, especially on a defective traffic light. In the US you have a really good chance to drive when you come from a smaller street to a mayor street when the lights are out and 4-way-stop rules apply, in Europe you basically always have to yield to the mayor street and stand there for hours.

Hi Nalf, i think this is the first time I am writing a comment on one your posts. I have lived for over 40 years in England, Ireland and the US and really, that what bothered you on no right turn, when traffic light is red, also bothered me. Now since I am living in Germany again, I have come to the same conclusion as you outlined in your post. Congrats pal. Joe

Winter walk? It's 90 degrees here in SoCal today. Must hike in Santa Monica mountains today. It will be cooler there. 25K steps today. Ahhh!

Thanks, Nick, for letting us participate in your deep thoughts !

For a lot of this video I thought it was going to be about things being closed on Sunday and I suspect you did that on purpose. Anyway, I suspect you are right about turning right on a red light starting in Western US cities. I think it spread East later. One holdout is NYC - all five boroughs. And yes, it is about the high number of pedestrians. I live in Brooklyn now, and it is a bit frustrating when at some intersection out where I live and no pedestrian is in sight.

if you want to understand more about the walkability concept and urban planning that is not car-centric, i suggest to you to have a look at the channel Not Just Bikes. It´s talking about the Netherlands, but in Europe (especially western Europe) the common direction is to render cities more and more bike and pedestrian friendly and reduce car traffic to the minimum essential. Not only because of environment, but also because it´s good for the economy of the city as a whole. The Canadian guy of Not Just Bikes explains it really really well!

I still don‘t get it why you do not have 100k+ subscribers. Your content is sooo good!

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

Numbers are going up!

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

I have often pondered that, too. I think it's because there really aren't that many people who can appreciate what he does.

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

@@mojojim6458 That is true, but on the other hand we are very spoiled by the steadily growing perfection of the videos. Maybe we would learn quite a lot if Nick had the time to show us a making-of, so that we could see how much time, patience and of course inspiration it takes to make a video that is really composed and structured and not only a series of pictures with a commentary. I would really appreciate that!

@mojojim6458

2 жыл бұрын

@@hannahanna649 You want him to reveal what happens behind the curtain? Be careful what you wish for. LOL

@hannahanna649

2 жыл бұрын

@@mojojim6458 No curtain, no magic?

There are some cities like Dietdfurt where decorating the walkways is more important than driveability. And of course there are also old towns with really slim roads in general

I‘m so amazed about your interest in other cultures and your respect for it

Oh Nalf, this can be the start of a traffic/city planning youtube rabbit hole, bashing the car centric mindset and promblems that arise from it

Maybe it's rare in Schwäbisch Hall In bavaria it's pretty normal that u have specific signs ore traficklights if u wanna go right and the light is red so u don't have to wait Most oft the time they even building the roads like that (suburbs)

Wow. You really got this. These are the key points city planners can do designing a city for pedestrians, also the concept of a city of short ways. After a lot of years there will form places where you like to walk around or to have a coffee or beer in a restaurant/biergarten. The proof are cities which were designed long before there were cars. Of course we also love cars in germany, but I think we have to be careful were we build streets, because it effects the quality of the city. For sure there is a german word for this, we call it "Aufenthaltsqualität". It means it is nicer for people to sit at a market place or in a green area than next to a loud road. Places where people normally tend to stay with restaurants and shops gives also a social control, which creates safe places.

It really makes sense, there is an intersection next to my busstation I use every week. And there are some guys turning right on red but when I'm standing there wanting to get to the other side of the road it gets dangerous.