The A4 'Warning for Steep Ascent' traffic sign alerts you to a significantly uphill road section ahead. The percentage displayed indicates the gradient, showing how steep the climb is. Drivers should anticipate that vehicles, especially heavy ones, may lose speed, requiring you to select a lower gear early, increase your following distance, and plan any overtaking maneuvers with extreme caution due to potentially reduced visibility near the crest.
Learn the key details of the A4 - Warning for Steep Ascent road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in Sweden. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Swedish driving theory exam.
This warning sign indicates a steep uphill section where vehicles may slow significantly. The number shows the approximate uphill gradient in percent, adapted to local conditions. On steep climbs, heavy vehicles can lose speed and may need more space or a lower gear. Your own vehicle may require gear changes, and visibility may be limited near the crest. Plan overtaking carefully and expect slower traffic, especially in winter or on narrow roads.
A steep uphill slope is ahead. The percentage indicates the gradient.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the A4 - Warning for Steep Ascent 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 Swedish driving theory exam in Sweden.
The percentage shown on the A4 'Warning for Steep Ascent' sign indicates the gradient of the uphill slope. For example, a 10% gradient means the road rises by 10 meters for every 100 meters travelled horizontally. This helps you gauge how steep the climb will be and prepare for potential speed reductions and gear changes.
When you see the A4 sign, you should anticipate a steep uphill section. It's advisable to select a lower gear before starting the ascent to maintain speed and control. Be patient, increase your distance from the vehicle ahead, especially if it's a heavy vehicle, and be extremely cautious about visibility at the crest for any potential overtaking opportunities.
Yes, steep ascents like those warned by the A4 sign present several risks. Vehicles can lose significant speed, potentially causing traffic jams. Visibility can be reduced near the top of the hill, making it dangerous to overtake. Heavy vehicles may struggle and require more space. Also, in winter conditions, the slope can become slippery and challenging to ascend or descend.
You can overtake when you see the A4 sign, but only if it is completely safe to do so. The sign warns that traffic may be slow, so overtaking might be necessary. However, you must be extra cautious near the crest of the hill where visibility is limited, and never attempt to overtake if there's any risk from oncoming traffic or if the vehicle ahead is slowing down significantly.
A common exam trap is underestimating the need to adjust speed and gear early. Learners might think they can maintain their current speed and gear, only to find themselves struggling halfway up the hill. Another mistake is not considering the limited visibility over the crest, leading to dangerous overtaking decisions. Always remember to anticipate the gradient and potential for slow-moving traffic.
A clear reference image of the A4 - Warning for Steep Ascent road sign used in Sweden.
The A4 - Warning for Steep Ascent road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The A4 - Warning for Steep Ascent road sign is part of the Warning Signs (A) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.