A volunteer firefighter from Taucha, in the Leipzig region, Germany, is contesting a fine imposed after being caught exceeding the speed limit while responding to an incident. The case comes to the Eilenburg District Court this Tuesday for trial. A decision is expected on the same day.
The incident occurred in early May 2025. Ray Lange, then 55, was driving the turntable fire truck to an elementary school under construction. The fire alarm had gone off because of a faulty air conditioning unit. He activated blue lights and a siren, as per protocol.
In the construction zone, where the limit was 30 km/h, the vehicle was photographed at 69 km/h. The city of Taucha issued a fine of 369 euros, two points on the license and a suspension of the license for one month. The firefighter appealed, claiming that he exercised a special right provided for in the traffic regulations for emergencies.
Mayor defends application of fine
Taucha Mayor Tobias Meier of the FDP stated that emergency vehicles have privileges, but are not exempt from all rules. According to him, it is necessary to assess speed and risk in each situation. The city maintained the penalty even with the lights and siren activated.
The case gained local repercussion. Lange left the volunteer fire department after 34 years of service. Other colleagues also resigned in protest.
Traffic rules provide for exceptions
Article 35 of the German Road Traffic Regulations allows firefighters, police and rescue services to ignore certain rules when necessary to save lives or prevent serious harm. The exemption requires, however, that public safety is respected.
In other cities and districts in Saxony, such as Plauen, Meißen and Zwickau, fines against emergency vehicles are often canceled after verification of the call. In Leipzig, the analysis is rigorous, but often results in a simple warning.
- Several firefighters left the volunteer ranks after the episode
- The alarm was false, caused by a defect in the air conditioning
- The incident ended with no injuries or major damage
- The court considers whether the speed was justifiable
Decision could set precedents
This Tuesday’s judgment puts into debate the balance between urgency in care and traffic limits. The president of the Landesfeuerwehrverband criticized the punishment and argued that cases like this should not lead to heavy penalties for volunteers.
The hearing is scheduled for 9 am. The firefighter and municipal administration await the verdict.
