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End of the permitted maximum speed
The sign may be integrated into a lane board, narrowing board or widening board. In that case, the sign applies only to the respective lane for which the permitted maximum speed had previously been prescribed.
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When you see the Zeichen
Zeichen 278 ends the maximum permitted speed previously imposed by a speed-limit sign. From the location of the sign, check which general or otherwise signposted maximum speed now applies, and do not accelerate before then.
Rules
- The sign only cancels the previously imposed maximum speed shown by the number displayed on the sign.
- After the sign, the general speed limits or another applicable speed regulation apply; it does not automatically mean unrestricted driving.
- On Autobahn without any further speed limit, passenger cars without trailers have no general maximum speed, but the recommended speed is 130 km/h.
- If Zeichen 278 is integrated into a lane, narrowing or widening sign, it applies only to the relevant lane for which the maximum speed was previously imposed.
- An existing no-overtaking restriction is not cancelled by Zeichen 278.
Tips
- Only accelerate after you have passed the sign.
- After the sign, check whether a new speed limit follows immediately.
- Continue to take visibility, weather, road conditions and traffic into account; even without a signposted limit, you may drive only as fast as the situation allows.
- If the sign is displayed over several lanes, check carefully which lanes the cancellation applies to.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is understood as general permission to drive without any speed limit. In fact, general maximum speeds or other restrictions may apply afterwards.
- Learners confuse Zeichen 278 with Zeichen 282, which cancels all route-specific speed restrictions and no-overtaking restrictions.
- Some drivers accelerate before the sign, even though the previous maximum speed applies up to its location.
Exam tip
A typical exam trap is whether Zeichen 278 automatically allows you to drive at unlimited speed afterwards. The correct approach is to first check the type of road, the type of vehicle, the general maximum speeds and any further traffic signs.
Did you know
Zeichen 278 displays the numerical value of the cancelled maximum speed once again in its centre, for example 80. This makes it clear which previously imposed speed limit is ending.
Frequently asked questions
May I drive faster immediately after Zeichen 278?
The previously imposed maximum speed ends only from the location of the sign. After that, you may accelerate only within the currently applicable general or signposted speed limit and at a speed appropriate to the traffic situation.
Does Tempo 100 automatically apply outside built-up areas after Zeichen 278?
For passenger cars without trailers, a maximum of 100 km/h generally applies on ordinary roads outside built-up areas, unless another regulation applies. The legal position may be different on Autobahn and suitably constructed Kraftfahrstraßen.
Does Zeichen 278 also cancel a no-overtaking restriction?
No. Zeichen 278 only ends the displayed maximum permitted speed; a separate no-overtaking restriction remains in force.
What does the sign mean when it appears within a lane sign?
The cancellation then applies only to the designated lane for which the maximum speed had previously been imposed. Other lanes may still be subject to different speed regulations.
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Prohibition for motor vehicles
Prohibition for motor vehicles over 3.5 t
Prohibition for bicycle traffic
Prohibition for motorcycles
Prohibition for pedestrians
Prohibition for motor vehicles
Prohibition for motor vehicles carrying dangerous goods and subject to marking