Steep Hill Downward Sign
The steep hill downward sign warns of a significant downgrade ahead. Drivers must select an appropriate gear before descending to avoid brake fade, especially in heavy vehicles.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
A steep downhill sign alerts drivers that the road drops sharply in elevation. The percentage number shown indicates the grade: for example, 8% means the road drops 8 metres for every 100 metres of travel. Steep descents are dangerous because continuous braking causes brakes to overheat and lose effectiveness, a condition known as brake fade. Truck runaway ramps are sometimes provided on severe grades.
Quick Facts
Type
Warning Sign
Shape
Diamond
Colours
Yellow background with black truck on slope symbol, percentage grade
In this guide
What does the Steep Hill Downward Sign mean?
A steep downhill sign alerts drivers that the road drops sharply in elevation. The percentage number shown indicates the grade: for example, 8% means the road drops 8 metres for every 100 metres of travel. Steep descents are dangerous because continuous braking causes brakes to overheat and lose effectiveness, a condition known as brake fade. Truck runaway ramps are sometimes provided on severe grades.
What to do when you see it
Reduce speed before beginning the descent. Select a lower gear so engine braking assists in controlling speed. Do not ride the brakes continuously: apply firm pressure, release, and repeat. If you notice a burning smell or reduced brake responsiveness, pull over immediately and let the brakes cool. Watch for runaway truck ramps if provided.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Steep hill downward signs appear at the crest of significant grades on rural roads, highways, and mountain routes. In Ontario, they are found on the Niagara Escarpment, roads through the Canadian Shield, and on approaches to valleys and ravines.
G1 test relevance
The G1 test includes questions on downhill driving technique, specifically the requirement to select a lower gear rather than relying on brakes. Candidates should know that engine braking is the recommended method for controlling speed on steep descents.
Common mistakes drivers make
Relying entirely on brakes on a steep descent is the primary error. Continuous heavy braking overheats the brake system. Another mistake is failing to shift to a lower gear before starting the descent, making it difficult to reduce speed on the slope itself.
Related Signs
Steep Hill Upward Sign
The steep hill upward sign warns of a significant uphill grade ahead. Slow vehicles may lose speed significantly on the grade, and drivers should choose an appropriate gear and be prepared for changing traffic conditions.
Learn moreCurve Ahead Sign
The curve ahead sign warns drivers of a gradual curve in the road ahead. Drivers should reduce speed before entering the curve, not during it, to maintain control and stay in their lane.
Learn moreSoft Shoulder Sign
The soft shoulder sign warns that the unpaved shoulder alongside the road is soft or unstable. If a vehicle's wheels drop off the pavement edge onto the shoulder, regaining control requires careful technique.
Learn moreSpeed Limit Sign
The speed limit sign is a white rectangular sign showing the maximum legal speed in kilometres per hour for that section of road. Drivers must not exceed the posted number under normal conditions.
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