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German Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Warning: Steep Descent Ahead!

108-25 - Descent 25% German road sign meaning

This sign, German road sign 108-25, officially 'Gefälle 25%', warns you about a significant downward slope of 25%. As a danger warning sign, it alerts drivers to a potential reduction in control, speed, and braking effectiveness. You should anticipate this hazard, adjust your speed and gear accordingly before reaching the descent, and be prepared for changing conditions or instructions from supplementary signs.

Interpreting the Descent 25% Sign

This sign (108-25) warns of a significant 25% downward slope, requiring careful speed adjustment and preparation for potential braking challenges. Master its road sign meaning and traffic sign explanation to improve your theory test revision and driving safety in Germany.

Definition of 108-25

German road sign 108-25, officially designated "Gefälle 25%", 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.

Meaning of 108-25

German road sign 108-25 means "Descent 25%" and is officially listed as "Gefälle 25%". 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.

Allowed actions for 108-25

Reduce speed early enough to keep full control before reaching the hazard.Scan both sides of the road, mirrors, lanes, shoulders, and crossing areas for the risk shown by the sign.Increase following distance and be ready to brake smoothly if another road user reacts suddenly.Choose a lane position that leaves safe clearance from the warned danger while staying within your lane and markings.Continue only when your speed and observation match the hazard, road surface, and available sight distance.

Prohibited actions for 108-25

Do not treat the warning as optional or wait until the hazard is directly in front of you.Do not overtake, accelerate, or follow closely when the sign points to reduced visibility, unstable road surface, crossing traffic, or vulnerable road users.Do not assume the danger is limited to the exact sign location; it may begin shortly after the sign and continue through the affected section.Do not ignore weather, darkness, traffic density, or roadworks conditions that can make the warned hazard more serious.

108-25 - Descent 25% road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 108-25 - Descent 25% 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.

What does the 'Gefälle 25%' road sign (108-25) indicate?

The German road sign 108-25, officially 'Gefälle 25%', warns drivers of a steep downward slope with a gradient of 25%. This means your vehicle will naturally accelerate, so you need to control your speed and braking effectively.

What action should I take when I see the 108-25 sign?

When you see the 'Gefälle 25%' sign, you must reduce your speed early enough to maintain full control. Consider downshifting to use engine braking, increase your following distance, and be extra vigilant about your surroundings and potential hazards on the descent.

Are there any specific dangers associated with a 25% descent?

Yes, a 25% gradient is quite steep. The primary dangers include losing control due to excessive speed, brake fade from prolonged heavy braking, and increased difficulty in steering. It can also be more hazardous in wet or icy conditions.

Can supplementary signs change the meaning of the 108-25 sign?

Absolutely. Supplementary plates often accompany danger warning signs like 108-25. They might specify the length of the descent, indicate specific hazards (like sharp bends), or provide instructions on how to proceed, so always check for them.

What is a common mistake learners make with the 'Gefälle 25%' sign during the theory test?

A common mistake is not reacting early enough. Learners might wait until they are already on the steep slope to slow down or change gear. The theory exam tests your ability to anticipate hazards, so it's crucial to adapt your driving *before* entering the descent.

108-25 - Descent 25% road sign image

A clear reference image of the 108-25 - Descent 25% road sign used in Germany.

108-25 - Descent 25% road sign

Other names for the 108-25 - Descent 25%

The 108-25 - Descent 25% road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

German road sign 108-25German traffic sign 108-25StVO sign 108-25Descent 25% signGefälle 25%danger warning signs 108-25

German Danger Warning Signs road sign category

The 108-25 - Descent 25% road sign is part of the German Danger Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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