The invention proposes a process for error recovery in electronic control devices as well as apparatus for controlling the steering angle of the rear wheels of a motor vehicle. The control device controls an actuating member to which is connected a safety device. In the main operation of the control device, transmitter signals are detected, actuating values are calculated and the actuating member is controlled corresponding to the calculated values. The calculated actuating values and the detected transmitter signals are checked for consistency. On the basis of the checked values, a decision is made as to whether to continue running the main program or resort to one of two emergency measures. In the first emergency measure, the safety device is activated and the control of the actuating member is switched off. In the second emergency measure, the signals of transmitters continue to be detected and actuating values are calculated from these signals. Before adjusting the actuating member, the calculated actuating values are multiplied by a factor decreasing over time to achieve a gradual damping of the actuating amplitude of the actuating member.