This German regulatory traffic sign, officially 'Ende der zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h', signals the end of a previously imposed 40 km/h speed limit. It is crucial to recognise this sign as your permission to resume normal driving speeds, provided no other speed restrictions apply. You should anticipate the sign and adjust your speed accordingly before reaching it, always being mindful of any supplementary plates or road markings that might alter the rule's application.
This section provides a crucial interpretation of German road sign 278-40, marking the end of a mandatory 40 km/h speed limit. Understanding this sign is vital for accurate theory test revision and making safe driving decisions according to German traffic rules.
German road sign 278-40, officially designated "Ende der zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h", belongs to the regulatory signs group. It gives a binding rule under the German StVO and must be followed rather than treated as advisory information. You may see it in junctions, restricted streets, cycle and pedestrian facilities, parking areas, low-emission zones, and roads with binding lane or speed rules, depending on how the road authority has arranged the location. An end version marks the point where that specific rule, facility, or marked section ceases to apply. 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 knowing whether the sign commands, forbids, limits, or cancels a rule. Always combine the sign with road markings, traffic lights, police instructions, and any supplementary plates at the same location.
German road sign 278-40 means "End zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h" and is officially listed as "Ende der zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h". 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 278-40 - End zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h 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 278-40, officially 'Ende der zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h', means that a mandatory speed limit of 40 km/h that was in effect is now over. You can now drive faster than 40 km/h, as long as other speed limits or regulations don't prevent you from doing so.
You can begin to increase your speed from the point where the sign 278-40 is placed. It's good practice to be aware of the sign in advance and prepare to accelerate, rather than waiting until you have passed the sign itself.
Sign 278-40 only cancels the specific 40 km/h speed limit that it refers to. If other speed limits are in place due to general regulations, road conditions, other signs (like urban area limits), or supplementary plates, you must continue to adhere to those.
A common trap is assuming that because the 40 km/h limit is over, you can speed limit-free. Always check for other speed limit signs or general speed rules (e.g., within built-up areas). Learners may also forget to consider supplementary plates that might restrict the end of the speed limit to certain vehicles or times.
Not necessarily. This sign only lifts the specific 40 km/h restriction. General speed limits, such as those for built-up areas (usually 50 km/h) or general Autobahn rules, still apply unless explicitly cancelled by another sign or situation.
A clear reference image of the 278-40 - End zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h road sign used in Germany.
The 278-40 - End zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 278-40 - End zulässigen Höchstgeschwindigkeit 40 km/h road sign is part of the German Regulatory Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing related road signs, like this "End of 40 km/h Speed Limit" sign, helps solidify your knowledge for the German theory test. Practicing traffic sign comparison improves recognition and reduces confusion, leading to better exam preparation.
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