German road sign 108-5 is a vital warning sign indicating a steep descent of 5%. As part of Germany's official danger warning signs (StVO), it alerts drivers to a road condition that can significantly impact vehicle control. You should recognise this sign early, adjust your speed and gear *before* reaching the descent, and check for any supplementary signs that might alter its meaning. This sign is crucial for anticipating hazards and ensuring safe driving, especially on unfamiliar roads.
This German danger warning sign (108-5) indicates a steep downhill slope of 5%, requiring careful speed adjustment and anticipatory driving. Mastering road sign meaning and traffic sign explanation is crucial for your German driving theory test revision.
German road sign 108-5, officially designated "Gefälle 5%", 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 108-5 means "Descent 5%" and is officially listed as "Gefälle 5%". 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 108-5 - Descent 5% 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 sign 108-5, officially 'Gefälle 5%', warns of a steep downhill slope of 5%. It's a danger warning sign designed to alert drivers that their vehicle's speed and braking capabilities may be significantly affected. You must prepare for this hazard before you reach it.
When you see the 108-5 sign, you should reduce your speed *before* the descent begins. It's also advisable to shift to a lower gear to help control your speed downhill without relying solely on brakes, which can overheat on long descents. Always be extra vigilant for other road users or changing conditions.
A common trap is waiting too long to react. Learners might forget to downshift or brake early enough, leading to a loss of control or overheating brakes. Another trap is assuming the danger is only at the sign; the descent starts shortly after and can continue for some distance.
Supplementary plates beneath the 108-5 sign can provide critical extra information. For example, a plate might specify the length of the descent, an additional hazard, or specific instructions. Always read and obey any additional signs in conjunction with the main warning.
The 5% indicates the steepness of the gradient. While 5% might not sound extreme, it's enough to require proactive speed and gear management, especially for heavier vehicles or in wet conditions. Higher percentages would require even more caution. Always adjust your driving behaviour based on this gradient.
A clear reference image of the 108-5 - Descent 5% road sign used in Germany.
The 108-5 - Descent 5% road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 108-5 - Descent 5% road sign is part of the German Danger Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing this sign with similar German traffic signs helps you distinguish crucial differences and reinforce correct identification for your theory test revision. Mastering traffic sign comparison is vital for accurate recognition and confident exam preparation.
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