This German traffic sign, 108-13, officially known as "Gefälle 13%", is a crucial danger warning. It alerts you to a steep downward slope of 13% on the road ahead. As part of the danger warning signs group, it signals a potential reduction in your vehicle's control, especially on longer or steeper descents. You must prepare by adapting your speed, gear, and braking *before* you reach the descent to maintain safety and full control.
This sign warns of a significant downhill gradient, requiring drivers to adjust speed and braking strategy to maintain control, crucial for passing your German theory test. Understanding the meaning of 'Gefälle 13%' is essential for safe driving and navigating German road signs effectively during your exam preparation.
German road sign 108-13, officially designated "Gefälle 13%", belongs to the danger warning signs group. It warns about a road-layout, clearance, weather, or surface condition that can reduce control, sight distance, grip, or available space before the driver reaches the hazard. You may see it in approaches to hazards, rural roads, urban conflict points, railway crossings, roadworks, and weather-sensitive sections, depending on how the road authority has arranged the location. The practical meaning is not just the symbol itself, but the driving decision it triggers: adjust speed, position, priority, route choice, stopping behaviour, or attention before the situation becomes urgent. For learners, the key skill is anticipating what could go wrong before the hazard is visible. Always combine the sign with road markings, traffic lights, police instructions, and any supplementary plates at the same location.
German road sign 108-13 means "Descent 13%" and is officially listed as "Gefälle 13%". In practice, it tells drivers to recognise the situation early, adapt before reaching the controlled area, and check whether markings or supplementary plates change how the rule applies.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 108-13 - Descent 13% road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the German driving theory exam in Germany.
The "Descent 13%" sign (Gefälle 13%) warns drivers about a steep downhill gradient of 13%. This means the road ahead drops significantly, which can affect your speed and braking ability. It's a warning to prepare for the hazard before you encounter it.
When you see the "Descent 13%" sign, you should anticipate the steep descent. It's essential to reduce your speed *before* entering the slope and select an appropriate gear (like 2nd or 3rd for manual transmission) to help control your speed without relying solely on brakes. This prevents overheating your brakes and maintains better control.
A 13% descent is quite steep. Gravity will naturally increase your vehicle's speed. Without preparation, you might struggle to brake effectively, especially if following another vehicle closely or if your brakes overheat from continuous use. This sign prompts you to take preventive measures for safety.
Yes, supplementary plates often accompany danger warning signs like 108-13. These plates can specify the length of the descent, provide additional warnings (like 'slippery when wet'), or indicate specific requirements. Always observe these supplementary plates and combine their information with the main sign's warning.
A common mistake is not preparing early enough. Learners might wait until they are already on the descent to brake or change gear, which is too late. The sign is a warning to *anticipate* and *prepare* beforehand. Another error is following too closely, as slowing down on a steep descent requires more distance.
A clear reference image of the 108-13 - Descent 13% road sign used in Germany.
The 108-13 - Descent 13% road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 108-13 - Descent 13% road sign is part of the German Danger Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Reviewing similar road signs side-by-side aids recognition and helps prevent common errors on your German driving theory test. Understanding the subtle differences between related traffic signs is crucial for accurate hazard perception and passing your exam.
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