When you are Rounding a Curve Accident

A dangerous curve, often called a “dead man’s curve,” is an unsafe curve along the road that is prone to car accidents.

These accidents often result in life-threatening injuries or even death. Excessive speed and distracted driving are the most common causes behind these accidents. Drivers tend to lose control of their vehicles when they drive too fast along these curves.

Posted Warning Signs to Prevent Accidents

Most drivers are cautious and alert while driving; however, a driver may underestimate the risk posed by a curve in the road. To prevent a potential accident, signs are posted near dangerous curves.

1. Curve and Corner Signs – A yellow-colored sign to warn drivers of a dangerous curve on the road ahead. These signs depict an illustration of the curve itself along with the most suitable speed for the vehicle to safely negotiate the curve.
2. Chevron Arrows – Chevron arrows comprise a series of signs set up along the actual location of the curve. These signs start before the curve itself and show the direction of the curve.

Safety Tips to Prevent Accidents

Be aware of the danger posed by a curve in the road

Whenever vehicles pass through a curve, the tires of the vehicle move forward due to acceleration and inertia. These opposing movements may cause the vehicle to skid, posing a danger to both the vehicle and the driver.

Slow Down

The first and most important rule when approaching a curve is to slow down. Curves are often posted with a recommended speed limit for safe navigation, so follow the posted limit or go even slower if necessary.

Keep Your Eyes on the Road

It’s important to pay attention when driving on any road, but even more so on curvy roads. Curves can be deceptive, hiding obstacles or hazards you must be prepared for.

Don’t Tailgate

Following another vehicle too closely leaves you little room to react if they need to brake suddenly. Instead, give yourself a one-car length between you and the car in front of you.

Don’t Cross the Center Line

It may be tempting to “cut the corner” when taking a turn, but resist the urge. This dangerous maneuver puts you in the path of oncoming traffic and increases your chances of an accident.

Brake Before the Turn

As you approach the turn, begin to slow down so that you can make the turn safely. Do not wait until you’re in the turn to brake, as this could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

Accelerate Through the Turn

Once you’ve made it through the turn, you can begin to accelerate back to the speed limit. Be sure not to go too fast, as this could cause you to lose control on a turn.

Use Caution When Passing

Curves limit your visibility, so use extra caution when passing other vehicles. Make sure you have enough room to safely navigate around the other vehicle before making your move.

Don’t Drive Distracted

Distracted driving is dangerous no matter where you are, but it can be especially hazardous on curvy roads. Put away your phone and focus on the task at hand.

Drive Defensively

Be aware of other drivers around you and anticipate their actions. For example, if you see a car approaching quickly from behind, they may be planning to pass you. Pay attention and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.

Avoid Over-turning the Wheel

When passing through the curve, move the vehicle along the edge of the lane opposite to the direction of the curve. For example, a vehicle should stay along the right of the lane in a left-curving road. This reduces the sharpness of the curve and reduces the chances of skidding.

Remain alert while passing through these curves

Be aware of drivers coming from the opposite direction and increase your speed only after you have passed the curve safely.