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Gradient
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When you see the Zeichen
Expect a steep downhill section and adjust your speed and gear selection early. Use the engine-braking effect and brake in a controlled manner when necessary so that the service brake does not overheat from prolonged braking.
Rules
- The percentage shown on the sign indicates the steepness of the downhill section: 10 % means a loss of height of approximately 10 metres over 100 metres of horizontal distance.
- On its own, Zeichen 108 does not prescribe a specific maximum speed; however, your speed must be adapted to the downhill gradient, visibility, road conditions and vehicle load.
- Before reaching the downhill section, select a suitable lower gear in good time so that you can use the engine-braking effect.
- On a downhill section, expect a longer stopping distance and stronger vehicle acceleration, especially with a heavy load or when towing a trailer.
Tips
- Reduce your speed before the downhill section begins, and do not wait until the vehicle is already accelerating strongly before changing down.
- Where possible, drive downhill in the same gear that you would use to drive up a comparable incline.
- Avoid braking lightly for long periods; brake deliberately when necessary and then allow the brakes to cool down again.
- Keep a greater distance from the vehicle in front because its speed can change more quickly when braking downhill.
Common misunderstandings
- The percentage is interpreted as an angle in degrees. In fact, it describes the difference in height over 100 metres of horizontal distance.
- Zeichen 108 is confused with Zeichen 110 “Steigung”. On a downhill section, the road shown slopes down from left to right; on an uphill section, it slopes upwards.
- Learner drivers believe that the sign automatically imposes a specific maximum speed. A specific speed limit applies only if it is additionally prescribed.
Exam tip
In exam questions, the percentage is often the trap: a 12 % downhill gradient means a loss of height of approximately 12 metres over 100 metres of horizontal distance, not 12 degrees. It is also usually correct to reduce your speed before the downhill section and use the engine-braking effect.
Did you know
A downhill gradient of 10 % does not correspond to an angle of 10 degrees, but to an angle of inclination of approximately 5,7 degrees. Percentages are commonly used in road traffic because they express the difference in height in relation to the horizontal distance.
Frequently asked questions
Does Zeichen 108 prescribe a specific speed?
No, the danger sign alone does not specify a concrete maximum speed. However, you must drive slowly enough to remain in full control of the vehicle at all times despite the downhill gradient; any additionally prescribed speed limit is binding.
What does, for example, 15 % mean?
It means that the road loses approximately 15 metres in height over 100 metres of horizontal distance. The figure is not an angle in degrees.
Why should I select a lower gear downhill?
A lower gear increases the engine-braking effect and prevents the vehicle from accelerating uncontrollably. This reduces the strain on the service brake and lowers the risk of overheating.
How can I distinguish a downhill gradient from an uphill gradient on the traffic sign?
With Zeichen 108, the black road illustration slopes down from the top left to the bottom right. With Zeichen 110 “Steigung”, it slopes up from the bottom left to the top right.
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