According to German traffic law, what is required of every user of a public road or highway?

The requirement for every user of a public road or highway to conduct themselves safely to avoid endangering others is a fundamental principle of road safety and traffic laws. This provision emphasizes the importance of responsibility among all road users—drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and others—in maintaining a safe environment.

The principle dictates that individuals must be aware of their surroundings, follow traffic rules, and make decisions that prioritize the safety of themselves and others. Safe conduct includes obeying speed limits, yielding the right of way, and using signals appropriately, all aimed at preventing accidents and protecting life. This holistic view of road safety forms the backbone of traffic regulations and ensures that everyone can use the roadways without undue risk.

The emphasis is on safety and responsibility rather than personal convenience or efficiency, which is illustrated by the other options, which focus on priorities that do not align with the overarching goal of ensuring the safety of all road users.