Double curvePortugal

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


1. Double curve

A double curve is a road section containing two successive curves in opposite directions. The first curve may turn left and then right, or right and then left.

The same warning sign may also indicate a longer succession of curves. Drivers should reduce speed before the first curve, remain within their lane and be prepared for the following curves to differ in direction, sharpness and length.

What is a double curve?

A double curve consists of two successive curves in opposite directions.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 13 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A.1, successive bends; sign-system reference

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, limits and stopping distance; national guidance example

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

Does a double-curve sign impose a speed limit?

No. It normally warns of danger rather than establishing a numerical limit. Drivers must reduce speed whenever the legal maximum would be unsafe.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 13 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A.1, successive bends; sign-system reference

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, limits and stopping distance; national guidance example

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

Why should you leave more following distance?

The vehicle ahead may brake unexpectedly for the second curve, an obstruction or changing road conditions that are not yet visible to you.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 13 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A.1, successive bends; sign-system reference

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, limits and stopping distance; national guidance example

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

May you stop or park in a double curve?

Only where it is permitted and your vehicle remains clearly visible. Stopping or parking where visibility is limited may create a serious hazard.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 13 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A.1, successive bends; sign-system reference

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, limits and stopping distance; national guidance example

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

What should you do if the second curve is sharper than expected?

Keep control, look along the intended path and reduce speed as safely as conditions allow. Use smooth steering and appropriate controlled braking where needed. Avoid abrupt inputs or crossing into another lane; a blanket instruction never to brake could be unsafe.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 13 and 23; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Annex 1, section A.1, successive bends; sign-system reference

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 124–126, limits and stopping distance; national guidance example

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