CurveRussia

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


26. 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.

Curve
Warning for a curve to the right. (Sayansky District, Russia)
Wikimedia.org • CC BY-SA
What makes a bend dangerous in Russia?

A bend can shorten the visible road and reduce the margin for correcting an error. Slow before entering and maintain control within the distance you can see to be clear. Grip, traffic and hidden road users can require a speed well below the posted maximum.

🔗 sh380.krsl.gov.spb.ru • Russia — Traffic Rules 1.3–1.5, 8–13 and Annexes 1–2, actual controls and safe movement

🔗 static.government.ru • Government of Russia — enacted Resolution 1088, 28 August 2026, full one-page amendment to document-presentation footnote

How should you approach a sharp curve in Russia?

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.

🔗 sh380.krsl.gov.spb.ru • Russia — Traffic Rules 1.3–1.5, 8–13 and Annexes 1–2, actual controls and safe movement

🔗 static.government.ru • Government of Russia — enacted Resolution 1088, 28 August 2026, full one-page amendment to document-presentation footnote

Is overtaking safe on a blind bend in Russia?

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.

🔗 sh380.krsl.gov.spb.ru • Russia — Traffic Rules 1.3–1.5, 8–13 and Annexes 1–2, actual controls and safe movement

🔗 static.government.ru • Government of Russia — enacted Resolution 1088, 28 August 2026, full one-page amendment to document-presentation footnote

1 Russia 2 Motorway 3 Residential area 4 Zone 5 Speed limit 6 Footpath 7 Bike path 8 Bridge 9 Speed bump 10 One-way traffic 11 Bus lane 12 Bus stop 13 Stop sign 14 Give way 15 Roundabout 16 Priority road 17 Priority over oncoming traffic 18 Give way to oncoming traffic 19 Pedestrian crossing 20 Railway crossing 21 Mandatory direction 22 School area 23 Overtaking 24 Crossing animals 25 Slippery road 26 Curve 27 Wrong-way driving 28 Roadworks 29 Height limit 30 Traffic lights 31 Pedestrian lights 32 Road markings 33 Driving licence 34 Location marker 35 Countdown markers 36 Emergency telephone 37 Parking 38 No stopping 39 Disabled parking 40 Reversing 41 Road surface 42 Provisional licence 43 Emergency exit 44 City limit 45 Tourist attraction 46 Horn 47 Licence plate 48 Charging station 49 Cyclist 50 Moped 51 Motorcycle 52 Bus 53 Police 54 Ambulance 55 Taxi 56 Pothole 57 Path 58 Particulates 59 Air pollution 60 Intersection 61 Rush hour 62 Road code 63 Street gutter 64 Cargo bike 65 Forestry vehicle 66 Construction vehicle 67 Semi-trailer truck 68 Trolleybus 69 Speed pedelec 70 Delivery vehicle 71 Idling 72 Tow truck 73 Four-wheel drive 74 Bicycle 75 Motorcycle equipment 76 Tram 77 Train 78 Rail track 79 Caravan 80 Trailer 81 Tow hitch 82 Fire truck 83 Siren 84 Convoy 85 Emergency vehicle lighting 86 Agricultural machinery 87 Electric bicycle 88 Electric vehicle 89 Pedelec 90 Quadricycle 91 Microcar 92 All-terrain vehicle 93 Van 94 Recreational vehicle 95 Scooter 96 Trikke 97 Personal mobility device 98 Skateboard 99 Segway 100 Kick scooter ...