The driver is the person who actively drives a vehicle on the road – i.e. steers and controls it. While driving, the driver bears direct responsibility for the behavior of the vehicle and compliance with all traffic regulations. In legal terms, the vehicle driver is clearly different from the vehicle keeper or owner.
Who is considered the driver?
A driver is anyone who takes the wheel of a vehicle while driving – regardless of whether they are also the keeper or owner. The prerequisite is always a valid driving license for the respective vehicle category.
In a company context, the driver can be an employee who has been assigned or given a company vehicle. In the case of pool vehicles or rental cars, the current driver is also to be regarded as the driver.
Rights and obligations
The driver is subject to numerous legal requirements:
- Responsibility for driving style: He must drive the vehicle safely and must not endanger himself or others.
- Knowledge of and compliance with the StVO: Traffic regulations must always be observed.
- Pre-trip vehicle inspection: Visual inspection for obvious defects (e.g. tires, lights, brakes).
- Driving license requirement: A valid driving license is mandatory.
- Duty to cooperate in the event of accidents: After an accident, he is obliged to report the damage and, if necessary, to provide assistance.
Conclusion
The vehicle driver is not just “the driver”, but a legally responsible person with clearly defined duties. In fleet management , his role is central – especially with regard to road safety, documentation and liability avoidance.
