Sharp Curve Sign
The sharp curve sign warns of a severe change in road direction that requires a significant reduction in speed. It is more urgent than the standard curve ahead sign and often accompanied by a speed advisory panel.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
A sharp curve sign indicates a turn tight enough that safe navigation requires drivers to slow considerably below the normal posted speed. The curve is defined as sharp because the radius of curvature is tight, increasing the risk of the vehicle leaving the road if speed is not reduced significantly. Where multiple chevrons appear alongside the road in the curve, these provide additional visual guidance through the turn.
Quick Facts
Type
Warning Sign
Shape
Diamond
Colours
Yellow background with black sharp curved arrow
In this guide
What does the Sharp Curve Sign mean?
A sharp curve sign indicates a turn tight enough that safe navigation requires drivers to slow considerably below the normal posted speed. The curve is defined as sharp because the radius of curvature is tight, increasing the risk of the vehicle leaving the road if speed is not reduced significantly. Where multiple chevrons appear alongside the road in the curve, these provide additional visual guidance through the turn.
What to do when you see it
Slow down well before the curve begins. Use the advisory speed panel as a guideline and reduce speed to at or below that number before entering. Steer smoothly through the curve without sudden inputs. Watch for the road edge carefully and look ahead through the curve to anticipate the exit angle.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Sharp curve signs appear on mountain passes, on rural roads with tight corners, near ravines and riverbeds where roads follow natural terrain, and on some urban roads through ravine areas. In Ontario, rural roads north of Toronto often feature sharp curve signs in hilly terrain.
G1 test relevance
G1 candidates may be tested on the difference between a curve ahead sign and a sharp curve sign. The important distinction is that a sharp curve requires a more significant speed reduction. Both are yellow diamond signs but the arrow angle differs visually.
Common mistakes drivers make
Dismissing the sharp curve warning and entering at the regular speed is very dangerous. Another common mistake is steering sharply to stay in lane, which can destabilize the vehicle. Smooth, deliberate steering inputs are essential through sharp curves.
Related Signs
Curve Ahead Sign
The curve ahead sign warns drivers of a gradual curve in the road ahead. Drivers should reduce speed before entering the curve, not during it, to maintain control and stay in their lane.
Learn moreWinding Road Sign
The winding road sign warns of a series of three or more curves or bends in the road ahead. Drivers should reduce speed and maintain a steady pace through the entire winding section, not just the first curve.
Learn moreSlippery When Wet Sign
The slippery when wet sign warns that the road surface loses traction significantly in wet conditions. Drivers must reduce speed below the normal limit when the road is wet, icy, or covered in leaves.
Learn moreNo Passing Zone Sign
The no passing zone sign is a yellow pennant-shaped sign that marks the beginning of a section where overtaking other vehicles is prohibited. It always appears on the left side of the road facing the driver.
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