The A2b sign, officially 'Depressão', is a warning sign used in Portugal indicating a concave dip or depression in the road surface or a bridge. Drivers must reduce their speed *before* reaching this hazard, increasing their observation and readiness to brake. This sign, part of the triangular red-bordered warning family, alerts you early so you can adapt your driving to potential issues like poor surface conditions or unexpected obstacles.
This warning sign, A2b - Depressão, signifies a concave road surface ahead, requiring immediate driver adaptation for safe passage. Mastering its interpretation is crucial for your theory test revision and understanding practical driving decisions on Portuguese roads.
A2b - Depressão (Depressão) belongs to the Portuguese warning signs category in the Regulamento de Sinalização do Trânsito. Visually, this belongs to the triangular red-bordered warning family used in Portugal, with the internal symbol identifying the specific hazard. The official wording is: depressão: indicação de um troço de via ou ponte com deformação côncava no pavimento. Its purpose is to warn early enough for the driver to adapt before the danger point. For theory preparation, connect the sign to a concrete driving decision: where to look, when to slow, whether to stop or yield, which route or lane to choose, and whether any panel changes the scope of the rule. On the road, interpret it together with markings, traffic lights, police directions, temporary works signs, and any additional panel placed with it. A strong exam answer explains both recognition and behaviour: not only what the sign is called, but what a safe and lawful driver must do next.
A2b - Depressão (Depressão) means that the driver must understand and apply this official Portuguese instruction: depressão: indicação de um troço de via ou ponte com deformação côncava no pavimento. In practical terms, you should reduce speed before the hazard, scan further ahead, increase following distance, and be ready for braking, steering, pedestrians, animals, traffic queues, or poor surface conditions.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the A2b - A2b - Depressão (Depressão) 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 Portuguese driving theory exam in Portugal.
The A2b 'Depressão' sign warns of a concave dip or depression in the road surface or a bridge. It means the road ahead will curve downwards and then back up, which can affect vehicle stability and visibility.
Upon seeing the A2b 'Depressão' sign, you should immediately reduce your speed *before* you reach the hazard. Increase your scanning distance, be prepared for braking or steering adjustments, and maintain a safe following distance. Be extra vigilant for pedestrians, animals, or sudden traffic changes.
Yes, you should avoid keeping the same speed when the hazard requires earlier braking. Overtaking or changing lanes where visibility, control, or space might be compromised due to the depression is also prohibited. Crucially, never react only when you are at the hazard point; preparation is key.
A common mistake is not understanding the need to prepare *before* the hazard. Learners might think it's okay to slow down only when entering the dip. Exam questions often test your ability to demonstrate proactive driving, which includes slowing down and increasing observation well in advance, not just reacting when it's almost too late.
Yes, like most Portuguese warning signs, the A2b 'Depressão' can be accompanied by an additional panel. This panel might indicate the length of the hazardous section, a specific distance to the hazard, or a warning about potential dangers like water accumulation or uneven surfaces within the depression. Always interpret the main sign together with any accompanying panel.
A clear reference image of the A2b - A2b - Depressão (Depressão) road sign used in Portugal.
The A2b - A2b - Depressão (Depressão) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The A2b - A2b - Depressão (Depressão) road sign is part of the Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Reviewing closely related Portuguese road signs helps reinforce your memory and reduces confusion, improving sign recognition. This practice is vital for theory test revision and understanding similar road signs.
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Prepare for reduced visibility with the Portuguese A13 Insufficient Visibility warning sign.
Watch out for Children: The A14 Warning Sign in Portugal
Slow Down: The A15 'Idosos' Sign Warns of Elderly Pedestrians Ahead
Prepare for Pedestrians: The A16a Warning Sign for Crossings
Prepare to yield for pedestrians with the A16b Pedestrian Crossing warning sign.
After reviewing the full list, explore signs by specific categories such as warning, regulatory, or informational to deepen your understanding. Practise recognizing signs in context and prepare effectively for your Portuguese driving licence theory test.
All Portuguese Road Signs List
