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CurveWorldwide

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Worldwide. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Worldwide

45. Curve

A curve is a section of road that changes direction to the left or right. A sharp, unexpected or poorly visible curve can reduce a driver’s view of approaching traffic, stopped vehicles, pedestrians and other hazards.

Drivers should reduce speed before entering the curve, remain within their lane and use smooth steering, braking and acceleration. Warning signs may indicate the direction of the first curve or a series of successive curves.

Warning for a curve to the left. (Veyrier, Switzerland)
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
What is a road curve?

A road curve is a section where the road changes direction to the left or right.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Does a curve-warning sign impose a speed limit?

No. It normally warns of danger rather than setting a numerical limit. Drivers must still reduce speed when the permitted maximum would be unsafe.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Warning for a curve to the left. Warning for a curve to the left.

Warning for a curve to the right. Warning for a curve to the right.

How fast should you drive through a curve?

Choose a speed that allows you to remain in your lane and stop within the distance you can see to be clear. The safe speed may be far below the legal maximum.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

May you stop or park in a curve?

Only where it is permitted and the vehicle remains clearly visible. Stopping or parking in a poorly visible curve may create a serious hazard and is often prohibited.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

Why should motorcyclists take extra care?

Motorcycles require grip for both cornering and braking. Riders should reduce speed before the curve, choose a stable line and avoid painted markings, gravel and slippery surfaces.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A, relevant hazard descriptions; section C II.1(e), load limits; sign-system reference

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 12–14 and 18; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, warning signs

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