This is a danger warning sign (156-20) indicating an upcoming level crossing, specifically with a distance marker board installed on the left side of the carriageway. It alerts you to reduce your speed and prepare for a potential hazard, as trains may appear unexpectedly. Always combine this sign's warning with any road markings, traffic lights, or additional plates to fully understand how to proceed safely and pass your German theory test.
This detailed explanation of German road sign 156-20, showing a level crossing with a left-side distance marker, is crucial for your theory test revision. It guides you on recognising potential hazards and adapting your driving behaviour, ensuring safe passage through this critical traffic area for your exam preparation.
German road sign 156-20, officially designated "Bahnübergang mit dreistreifiger Bake - Aufstellung links", belongs to the danger warning signs group. It warns that vulnerable road users, animals, or crossing movements may appear suddenly, so recognition and early speed reduction are essential. 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. This left-side version is used where the sign is placed on the left side of the carriageway or where a mirrored symbol fits the approach direction. Any left reference should be read as part of the direction, road side, lane arrangement, or placement shown by the sign. 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 156-20 means "Level crossing with dreilaneer distance marker board - installed on the left" and is officially listed as "Bahnübergang mit dreistreifiger Bake - Aufstellung links". 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 156-20 - Level crossing with dreilaneer distance marker board - installed on the left 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.
Sign 156-20 warns drivers about an approaching level crossing. The 'dreistreifige Bake' (three-striped marker board) indicates the distance to the crossing, and its placement on the left side specifies its position relative to the road. It's a crucial danger warning that requires you to be extra vigilant and adjust your speed.
Upon seeing sign 156-20, you must recognise the impending hazard and reduce your speed well in advance. Be prepared to stop if necessary, and scan for approaching trains. Never assume the danger is only at the sign; the hazard exists at the crossing itself, which might be shortly after the sign.
The three-striped marker board is a visual cue used in Germany to indicate proximity to a railway crossing. The number of stripes typically decreases as you get closer to the crossing itself, with three stripes being the furthest warning. It's designed to help drivers anticipate the hazard early.
Yes, you must always be aware of functioning barriers, warning lights, and audible signals. Also, consider visibility conditions, especially in bad weather or at night, and always check that no train is approaching before crossing. Never attempt to speed up or overtake near a level crossing.
The 'Aufstellung links' simply indicates on which side of the carriageway the three-striped marker board is placed. It doesn't change the fundamental warning of an approaching level crossing but informs you about the sign's positioning and potentially the layout of the approach. Always observe signs and markings on your side of the road.
A clear reference image of the 156-20 - Level crossing with dreilaneer distance marker board - installed on the left road sign used in Germany.
The 156-20 - Level crossing with dreilaneer distance marker board - installed on the left road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 156-20 - Level crossing with dreilaneer distance marker board - installed on the left road sign is part of the German Danger Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing German road signs like this one with similar examples sharpens your recognition and recall for the theory test. Understanding subtle differences aids in accurate sign identification and prevents common errors during your driving licence exam preparation.
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Deepen your understanding of specific road sign categories or test your knowledge with practice questions. Explore our themed sign groups for targeted study or jump into quizzes to reinforce your recognition skills for the official German theory exam.
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