CurveFrance
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of France. 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.
42. 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 • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
What makes a bend dangerous in France?
Curves shorten your view of the road ahead and can reduce the margin for correcting a mistake. Drivers may encounter winding routes in the Alps, Pyrenees and rural areas; the safe speed can be well below the posted maximum. Watch for changing road surfaces and people or vehicles hidden beyond the curve.
🔗 legifrance.gouv.fr • French Road Code — R413-17, R414-1–4, R414-11; 1967 order article 3
How should you approach a sharp curve in France?
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.
🔗 legifrance.gouv.fr • French Road Code — R413-17, R414-1–4, R414-11; 1967 order article 3
Is overtaking safe on a blind bend in France?
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.
🔗 legifrance.gouv.fr • French Road Code — R413-17, R414-1–4, R414-11; 1967 order article 3
Warning for a curve to the left.
English • Traffic sign A1b • Left-hand bend.
Français • Panneau A1b • Virage à gauche.
🔗 Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Equipementsdelaroute.cerema.fr • Arrêté du 24 novembre 1967
© Roulex 45 et les contributeurs Wikimedia • CC BY-SA 3.0 • SVG original non modifié.
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Roulex 45 • CC BY-SA 3.0 • Source revision 2013-07-05. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Warning for a curve to the right.
English • Traffic sign A1a • Right-hand bend.
Français • Panneau A1a • Virage à droite.
🔗 Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Equipementsdelaroute.cerema.fr • Arrêté du 24 novembre 1967
© Roulex 45 et les contributeurs Wikimedia • CC BY-SA 3.0 • SVG original non modifié.
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Roulex 45 • CC BY-SA 3.0 • Source revision 2013-07-05. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Traffic rules
France