This German warning sign, 117-20, officially 'Seitenwind von links', alerts you to strong crosswinds approaching from the left. As part of Germany's danger warning signs group, it signals a potential hazard that could affect your vehicle's stability and control. You should anticipate this situation early, reduce your speed before reaching the affected area, and be prepared to make steering corrections to maintain your lane.
This sign warns of potential crosswinds from the left, requiring drivers to adjust their speed and steering. Accurate road sign meaning and interpretation are crucial for passing your theory test and ensuring safe driving in Germany.
German road sign 117-20, officially designated "Seitenwind von links", 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. 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 117-20 means "Crosswind left" and is officially listed as "Seitenwind von 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 117-20 - Crosswind 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 117-20, officially 'Seitenwind von links', is a warning sign indicating a strong crosswind is expected, blowing from the left. It's designed to alert drivers to a potentially hazardous condition that could affect vehicle control.
Upon seeing sign 117-20, you must reduce your speed well in advance of the hazard to ensure you can maintain control. Be ready to make steering adjustments to counteract the wind's effect and keep your vehicle within its lane.
This sign is often placed on exposed sections of road, such as bridges, open countryside, or areas where buildings create wind tunnels. The goal is to warn you before you enter the section where the crosswind is strongest.
Yes, you should avoid overtaking, accelerating suddenly, or following too closely. These actions can be dangerous if your vehicle's stability is compromised by the crosswind. Always prioritize safe control over speed or proximity to other vehicles.
No, sign 117-20 does not require you to stop. It's a warning to prepare for a change in driving conditions by reducing speed and increasing vigilance. You should continue driving cautiously, maintaining full control of your vehicle.
Pay attention to your vehicle's behaviour – does it drift? Also, watch for other vehicles, especially smaller ones like motorcycles or bicycles, which are more susceptible to crosswinds. Be aware of any supplementary signs that might further detail the affected area or duration.
A clear reference image of the 117-20 - Crosswind left road sign used in Germany.
The 117-20 - Crosswind left road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 117-20 - Crosswind left road sign is part of the German Danger Warning Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing signs like 'Crosswind left' with others helps solidify your understanding and memory, reducing errors during your German theory test. Effective traffic sign comparison is key to mastering road rules and improving your overall sign recognition for safe driving.
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