This sign (108-15), officially 'Gefälle 15%', is a danger warning sign indicating a steep downhill gradient of 15%. As part of Germany's official traffic regulations (StVO), it alerts drivers to a potential reduction in control and grip. You must adapt your speed and gear selection before reaching the descent to maintain safety, especially in adverse conditions or if additional plates modify its meaning.
This danger warning sign indicates a steep descent of 15%, crucial for understanding potential speed and braking challenges on German roads. Recognizing this sign is vital for effective theory test revision and safe driving practice, ensuring you adapt your approach before entering the gradient.
German road sign 108-15, officially designated "Gefälle 15%", 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 108-15 means "Descent 15%" and is officially listed as "Gefälle 15%". 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 108-15 - Descent 15% 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 German road sign 108-15, known as 'Gefälle 15%', warns drivers that they are approaching a steep downhill section of road with a gradient of 15%. This significant slope can affect your vehicle's speed and braking ability, so early preparation is crucial.
Upon seeing the 'Gefälle 15%' sign, you should reduce your speed well in advance of the descent. Select a lower gear to help control your speed without relying solely on brakes, which can overheat on long descents. Increase your following distance as other drivers may also need to brake unexpectedly.
No, the 'Descent 15%' sign (108-15) is a danger warning sign, not a prohibition. It doesn't forbid specific actions like overtaking, but it strongly advises caution and a change in driving behaviour to manage the upcoming hazard safely. Always be extra vigilant.
A common mistake is failing to reduce speed and change gear early enough. Learners might wait until they are already on the steep descent, making it harder to control the vehicle. Another trap is forgetting to increase following distance, as vehicles ahead may brake more sharply.
Yes, always consider supplementary plates shown with the 108-15 sign, as they can specify the length of the descent or other conditions. Also, factors like wet roads, heavy traffic, or towing a trailer will make the descent more hazardous, requiring even greater caution and speed adjustment.
A clear reference image of the 108-15 - Descent 15% road sign used in Germany.
The 108-15 - Descent 15% road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 108-15 - Descent 15% road sign is part of the German Danger Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Understanding the subtle differences between similar road signs is crucial for accurate recognition and fewer errors during your German driving theory test. Comparing these signs helps solidify your knowledge of traffic rules and road markings for effective exam preparation.
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