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Risk of skidding or sliding
Risk of skidding or sliding when wet or dirty
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When you see the Zeichen
On wet or dirty roads, reduce your speed early and increase your following distance. Steer, brake and accelerate as smoothly as possible, because the vehicle can lose traction or skid more easily on this section.
Rules
- Zeichen 114 warns of an increased risk of skidding or sliding when the road is wet or dirty.
- Under § 3 StVO, you must adjust your speed so that you can remain in constant control of the vehicle despite the foreseeable hazard; however, the sign does not prescribe a specific maximum speed.
- Any posted speed limit or Zusatzzeichen must also be observed, for example a restriction applying to the hazard over a specific length of road.
- Overtaking, changing lanes and carrying out other driving manoeuvres is only permitted when it can be done safely under the reduced-traction conditions.
Tips
- Reduce your speed before reaching the hazardous section if possible, rather than braking heavily once you are on it.
- Keep a greater distance so that you can slow down smoothly if braking distances are longer.
- Avoid abrupt steering, heavy acceleration and forceful braking, especially on bends.
- Watch out for water, leaves, mud, soil and other dirt that can further reduce tyre grip.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is confused with „Unebene Fahrbahn“: Zeichen 114 warns of reduced traction, not bumps or damage to the road surface.
- Some learner drivers believe the sign only applies when it is raining. Dirt, mud or wet leaves can also cause the announced risk of skidding.
- The skidding symbol is interpreted as an instruction to countersteer. However, it is a preventive warning; the key points are adapting your speed and operating the controls smoothly.
Exam tip
A typical exam trap is the question of whether Zeichen 114 automatically imposes a fixed maximum speed. It does not: you must take responsibility for adapting your speed to wetness, dirt, visibility and tyre grip, and also observe any posted speed limits.
Did you know
The pictogram shows a skidding vehicle with wavy tracks. Zeichen 114 is often placed before sections where water collects in the rain or where dirt from agriculture, construction sites or nearby vegetation can make the road particularly slippery.
Frequently asked questions
Do I always have to drive more slowly at Zeichen 114?
You must adapt your speed to the actual conditions. Wet or dirty roads regularly require a significant reduction, but the sign alone does not specify a fixed speed.
Does the sign also apply when the road is dry?
The official meaning refers to the risk of skidding or sliding when the road is wet or dirty. Even if the road appears dry, you should remain alert if dirt or slippery patches are visible.
What should I do if the vehicle still starts to skid?
Stay calm, avoid frantic steering movements and gently release the accelerator if possible. In an emergency stop with ABS, you may brake firmly while steering in the desired direction.
How does Zeichen 114 differ from Zeichen 112 „Unebene Fahrbahn“?
Zeichen 114 warns of reduced tyre grip caused by wetness or dirt. Zeichen 112, on the other hand, warns of uneven surfaces such as bumps, raised sections or depressions in the road.
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