Warning for Steep Ascent
The sign indicates a steep ascent. The number indicates the gradient in percentage and is adapted to the conditions at the location.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should choose the correct gear well in advance and adjust your speed so that you maintain forward momentum through the incline. Keep increased distance to the vehicle ahead and refrain from overtaking if visibility or space is limited.
Rules & Regulations
- A4 is a warning sign that indicates a steep ascent and shows in percent how steep the incline is.
- The sign does not change right-of-way rules or the road's priority, but according to traffic regulations you must adapt your driving in response to the warning.
- Select an appropriate gear well before the ascent to maintain propulsion and avoid the engine losing revs or the vehicle stalling.
- Keep extra distance to the vehicle in front because heavy or heavily loaded vehicles can become significantly slower on the incline.
Tips for Drivers
- Downshift before the crest so you have enough engine power to maintain speed through the ascent.
- Avoid overtaking if you cannot clearly see over the crest or are not certain you can complete the maneuver before visibility ends.
- If you drive an automatic car, use manual mode or "L" on long or steep ascents to prevent the gearbox from shifting up too early.
- Keep a larger safety distance to heavy vehicles — they may lose speed and you need time to react.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing it with a warning for a downhill — the sign means ascent (uphill), not descent (downhill).
- Believing the percentage figure indicates speed or distance instead of gradient (rise in meters per 100 meters).
- Thinking the sign imposes a specific right-of-way or prohibits overtaking; it is a warning that requires adapting driving behavior, not automatic right-of-way.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Warning for Steep Ascent
What should you do when you see this sign?
- A Prepare for a steep ascent — motor vehicles may need a lower gear and adjusted speed. The percentage indicates the gradient.
- B It warns of a steep descent — use engine braking.
- C It means the road is closed to heavy vehicles.
- D It is a warning for crossing pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may get a question comparing A4 (ascent) with the sign for a descent — be careful to interpret the percentage figure and what is required of the driver (gear selection and adjusted speed, not right-of-way).
Did You Know?
The percentage figure shows the height increase per 100 meters of horizontal distance (e.g. 10% = 10 m over 100 m) and the sign is common on hilly country roads and in mountain areas where longer or steeper ascents occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign mean I must reduce my speed immediately?
No, it is a warning sign and not a speed limit. However, you should adapt your speed and gear to the ascent so that you can pass safely and without the engine losing revs.
Does the warning apply only to heavy vehicles?
No, the warning applies to all road users because everyone must adapt their driving to the road's gradient. Heavy vehicles are often more affected, so increased caution is recommended when meeting them and when overtaking.
How do I interpret the percentage figure on the sign?
The percentage indicates the gradient relative to horizontal distance: percent = meters of rise per 100 meters. Example: 12% means the road rises 12 meters over a horizontal distance of 100 meters.
Are you allowed to overtake on an ascent?
Overtaking is allowed if it is safe and clear, but on ascents visibility is often poor and heavy vehicles can be slower, so it is often inappropriate. Refrain from overtaking if you are not sure you can complete the maneuver before the crest or before visibility deteriorates.
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