You are driving a laden motor vehicle equipped with a manual gearbox. On a steep descent your speed is steadily increasing even though the permanent brake is activated. What should you do?

When driving a laden motor vehicle down a steep descent, it's essential to maintain control of your speed to ensure safety. Activating the permanent brake alone may not be sufficient, especially if your speed is still increasing. The correct response involves using the service brake alongside selecting a lower gear.

By selecting a lower gear, the vehicle's engine can assist in slowing down, creating engine braking, which helps maintain a stable speed. This combined use of the service brake and lower gear alignment is particularly important in the context of German traffic regulations, which emphasize safe driving practices and vehicle control under various conditions. Always remember that adequate use of both braking systems is critical in preventing accidents, especially when dealing with challenging terrains.