Germany is stereotypically focused on order and following the rules in day to day life.  While in many cases this can be overblown, with regards to obeying crossing signals and jaywalking, this stereotype is completely true.  In Germany, crossing when the signal is still red, or failing to use a crosswalk (Zebrastreifen; Fußgängerüberweg) when one is reasonably available will result in anything from icy glares by fellow passers by, to a call to "think of the children!", to a talking to by a police officer if one sees you.  While jaywalking is legally not allowed in the U.S., in many cities, it's something of a common joke to describe jaywalking as a sport.  Why is it so different in Germany?

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