Warning of Dangerous Curve
The sign indicates a dangerous curve and the direction of the curve.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign, immediately reduce speed to a level that allows you to safely negotiate the curve without needing to brake hard in the turn. Prepare your gear selection and lane position, watch for oncoming vehicles and reduced traction.
Rules & Regulations
- Sign A1 warns of a dangerous curve and indicates the direction of the curve (left or right).
- It is a warning sign, not a mandatory or speed sign — you must adjust your speed to road and visibility conditions, but the sign does not specify a fixed speed limit.
- Warning signs are normally placed on rural roads about 150–250 meters before the hazard; in built-up areas or where sight distance is short the distance may be shorter.
- If several curves or a longer stretch of dangerous curves follow, another warning sign or a supplementary plate may be used to clarify the length or number of curves.
Tips for Drivers
- Brake in good time while you are still driving straight — avoid heavy braking and gear changes in the middle of the curve to maintain stability.
- Select the appropriate gear before the curve so you have engine braking if needed and avoid shifting gears during the turn.
- Keep your lane and be aware of oncoming traffic, especially on narrow country roads where visibility and passing opportunities may be limited.
- Increase following distance and adjust speed extra carefully in poor road conditions (rain, snow, ice) or when visibility is limited.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign imposes a mandatory speed limit — the sign only warns and does not indicate a specific speed.
- Confusing this simple curve warning with signs that warn of multiple curves or switchbacks, thus misinterpreting how long the hazard lasts.
- Braking too late and then trying to stop within the curve itself instead of slowing down well before the turn.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Warning of Dangerous Curve
What does this warning sign mean for you as a driver?
- A The sign warns of a dangerous bend and indicates its direction.
- B It warns of a slippery road due to ice or snow.
- C It is a warning for falling rocks.
- D It indicates that the road becomes one-way.
Exam Tip
On the theory test they often check whether you know the difference between a warning sign and a prohibition/mandatory sign. A common trick is to ask whether the sign requires a certain speed or right of way — the correct answer is that it is only a warning and you should adjust your speed to the conditions.
Did You Know?
The triangle with a red border is an international warning shape used according to conventional standards. A1 signs are very common on rural roads where visibility is limited by terrain or road layout and have existed in various forms since international road signs were standardized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign mean I must reduce my speed to a specific limit?
No, the sign does not indicate a specific speed. You must judge and adjust your speed according to the sharpness of the curve and the road and weather conditions.
How far before the curve is the sign placed?
On rural roads warning signs are usually placed about 150–250 meters before the hazard, while the distance may be shorter in built-up areas. Exact placement can vary depending on road standards and sight conditions.
Does the sign always show exactly how sharp the curve is?
No, the sign indicates the direction of the dangerous curve but does not always show how sharp it is. Sometimes supplementary signs or speed signs are used to provide more information.
Can the sign be combined with a supplementary plate?
Yes, it is common for a supplementary plate to be used to indicate the distance to the hazard, the length of the stretch with dangerous curves, or other clarifications. Always read supplementary plates together with the main sign.
Practice more in the app
Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.