CurvePanama

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Panama. 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

Panama

1. 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.

What makes a bend dangerous in Panama?

Curves shorten the view ahead and reduce the margin for correcting a mistake. Grip, visibility, road condition and hidden traffic can make the safe speed much lower than the legal maximum. Slow before the bend, retain control and watch for people or vehicles beyond it.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Traffic Regulations, Decree 640/2006 — Articles 147–184: actual controls, circulation, signs, parking and safe speed

🔗 infojuridica.procuraduria-admon.gob.pa • Procuraduría official amendment register — Decree 640/2006, currency and modifying instruments

How should you approach a sharp curve in Panama?

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.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Traffic Regulations, Decree 640/2006 — Articles 147–184: actual controls, circulation, signs, parking and safe speed

🔗 infojuridica.procuraduria-admon.gob.pa • Procuraduría official amendment register — Decree 640/2006, currency and modifying instruments

Is overtaking safe on a blind bend in Panama?

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.

🔗 gacetaoficial.gob.pa • Panama Traffic Regulations, Decree 640/2006 — Articles 147–184: actual controls, circulation, signs, parking and safe speed

🔗 infojuridica.procuraduria-admon.gob.pa • Procuraduría official amendment register — Decree 640/2006, currency and modifying instruments

Warning for a curve to the right.

English • Traffic sign P-1-2B • Right-hand bend. Reduce speed before entering.

Español • P-1-2B • Curva a la derecha. Advierte una curva hacia la derecha. Reduzca la velocidad antes de entrar en ella.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Amateria1121 • CC BY-SA 3.0)
🔗 Ena.com.pa • ENA Norte: detalle de señalización vertical, enero 2026, hoja 44

SVG source: Amateria1121 • CC BY-SA 3.0 • Original revision 2014-04-15. Wikimedia original unmodified.