CurveAustralia
24. 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.
Wikimedia.org • Maksym Kozlenko • CC BY-SA
What makes a bend dangerous in Australia?
Curves shorten your view of the road ahead and can reduce the margin for correcting a mistake. Drivers may encounter remote outback curves and bends where wildlife or road trains may be present; the safe speed can be well below the posted maximum. Australian states and territories use advisory-speed signs at some bends; the actual statutory limit and any local restriction must still be followed.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — curve
Warning for a curve to the left.
English • W1-3(L) • Curve to the left. The road curves to the left ahead. Adjust your speed before entering the curve.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Standards.transport.nsw.gov.au • Transport for NSW • alignment signs • section17.4.1
SVG source: Standards Australia • Public domain • Original revision 2012-10-11. Wikimedia original unmodified.
How should you approach a sharp curve in Australia?
Slow down before the bend, select the correct lane position, look through the curve and steer smoothly. Keep enough grip and visible stopping distance for the road and weather conditions.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — curve
Is overtaking safe on a blind bend in Australia?
No. Do not start overtaking where your view of oncoming traffic is obstructed or where signs or road markings prohibit it. Wait until there is a lawful, clear and sufficiently long view ahead.
🔗 nsw.gov.au • Australia, NSW official road-user guidance — curve

Traffic rules
Australia