Warning sign · W322
Steep descent sign (W322)
The road descends steeply ahead.
What does the steep descent sign mean?
The road descends steeply ahead.
What should you do?
Select a suitable lower gear before the descent; do not coast in neutral.
| Sign code | W322 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Warning signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the steep descent sign
A triangle showing a steep downhill gradient.
Where you will see it
On roads where the road drops steeply, especially in mountains.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Select a lower gear before the descent, allow a longer stopping distance and do not coast in neutral.
- Heavy vehicles need even more room.
The common mistake
It is a warning of a gradient, not a speed limit.
Why this sign matters
A steep descent can overheat brakes and increase speed. The sign tells you to select a lower gear before you start going down.
About warning signs
Warning signs tell you about a hazard ahead so you can slow down and prepare. They are red-bordered triangles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the steep descent sign (W322) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: warning signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: select a suitable lower gear before the descent; do not coast in neutral.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Warning signs and temporary road controls.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the steep descent sign with these:
Steep ascent (W323)A triangle showing a steep uphill gradient.
Crossroad ahead (W101)A triangle with a plain cross showing a road crossing yours.
T-junction ahead (W104)A triangle showing your road ending against a road that runs across it.Test yourself: Steep descent sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Falling rocks may obstruct the road ahead.
- The road descends steeply ahead.
- A tunnel lies ahead.
Show the answer
Answer B: The road descends steeply ahead.
Select a suitable lower gear before the descent; do not coast in neutral.
Memory tip: W322 · Steep descent
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Look for debris and reduce speed to leave room to react.
- Prepare for changing light and visibility; observe any tunnel controls.
- Select a suitable lower gear before the descent; do not coast in neutral.
Show the answer
Answer C: Select a suitable lower gear before the descent; do not coast in neutral.
Steep descent: The road descends steeply ahead.
Memory tip: Select a suitable lower gear before the descent; do not coast in neutral.
All vehicle codes
Steep descent sign: quick questions
What does the steep descent sign (W322) mean?
The road descends steeply ahead.
What should you do at the steep descent sign?
Select a lower gear before the descent, allow a longer stopping distance and do not coast in neutral. Heavy vehicles need even more room.
Where will you see the steep descent sign?
On roads where the road drops steeply, especially in mountains.
What is the common mistake with the steep descent sign?
It is a warning of a gradient, not a speed limit.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.