Not all roads are straight and easy for you to drive on them. Therefore, you see hairpin bend signs on many hilly and curvy roads. As a driver, you must know what this sign is exactly telling you.
So, today we will discuss the hairpin bend sign’s meaning, major types and symbol. You will also know legal placement rules and how to drive when you see the hairpin turn sign.
Hairpin Bend Sign Meaning
A hairpin bend sign is placed on the road to warn you about a sharp U-shaped turn (180°) ahead. Hair bend is also known as hairpin turn or hairpin corner. It tells you to slow down your vehicle and drive carefully.
Because, the road will curve sharply, almost like a hairpin. So, this sign simply reminds you to stay alert and keep full control of your vehicle when you turn.
Shape & Symbol of Hairpin Bend Sign
It usually has a diamond shape with a thick border. Inside its border, you will see a curved arrow which points in the direction of the bend. For example: it can be bent to the left or right.
The border of this sign warns you to be alert. While, its directed arrow shows you how the path will turn ahead you. In this way, you will be aware of the road’s shape before you reach the bend.
Hairpin Bend Sign Color
The color of the hairpin bend sign is mostly yellow or white with a black bold arrow which shows you direction of turn. However, the sign border can be red or black. The red color is the sign of danger. Hence, you will mostly notice the red border on the hairpin bend sign.
Country To Country Difference in Hairpin Bend Sign
The design and color of hairpin turn signs can be changed in different countries. For example: you will find this sign with a yellow triangle and red border.
In some other countries, you see diamond shaped hairpin bend signs with a black arrow are installed on roads. Furthermore, many countries also use different background colors (white or yellow) for this sign to match their traffic sign standards.
Standard Color of Hairpin Bend Sign in US
In the United States, the hairpin bend board is usually a yellow diamond with a black curved arrow. The yellow color is used to alert drivers and indicate caution. Plus, the black arrow clearly shows you the sharp bend ahead.
This combination of colors allows you to notice the sign quickly and reduce your car speed before the turn.
Hairpin Bend Sign Types
Following are two types of hairpin turn signs. Each sign will show you direction and sharpness of the turn ahead.
Right Hairpin Bend Sign Meaning
The right hairpin bend sign warns you about the very sharp turn to the right side of your current road ahead. It directs you to slow down, stay in your lane and drive carefully to pass the bend safely.
Left Hairpin Bend Sign Meaning
If you see a sign with a left turn arrow, it means the road ahead will curve sharply to the left direction. It also warns you to reduce your vehicle speed and drive without losing control over your car. So, you can follow the road safely and stay in your lane throughout the bend.
Hairpin Bend Sign vs U Turn
The following table will show you the major contrast between hairpin bend signs and U-turn signs.
| Main Points | Hairpin Bend Sign | U-Turn Sign |
| Location | Sharp bend road and in hilly areas | Installed at junctions roads & intersections |
| Purpose | Warn driver about sharp bend ahead | Guide drivers where they are allowed to reverse vehicle |
| Action | You must slow down and take turn | You perform U-turn if it is safe & allowed |
How Do You Safely Navigate a Hairpin Bend Sign?
If you want to safely drive through a hairpin bend, it’s important for you to slow down and prepare for a sharp turn. Then, you have to follow the following steps.
- Lower Gear: Must keep your vehicle in a lower gear when you approach a bend. This will keep the engine running smoothly. You should avoid pressing the clutch unless necessary.
- Control Speed: You need to hold the engine revs (revolutions per minute) slightly higher than usual. Then, gently press the accelerator if the engine starts to slow. Always remember to keep your both hands on the steering wheel for better control.
- Direction & Brakes Use: Now, follow the arrow direction on the sign and use your car brakes gently to maintain a safe speed. Finally, you can take a turn carefully to avoid an accident.
How To Tackle Hairpin Bends Sign By a Motorbike
When you ride a motorbike on hairpin bend, it requires extra care.
- Slow down your bike
- Lean gently in curve direction
- Keep your body relaxed
- Stay in your path, avoid braking & take turn
How To Select the Correct Speed For a Bend?
When you approach a hairpin bend, you should always follow the posted speed limit which is mentioned on the sign. Generally, 20km/h is an ideal speed to drive on these types of roads. However, these limits are set based on the sharpness of the turn and road conditions to keep you safe.
What is the Minimum Hairpin Bend Distance?
The minimum distance between two hairpin bends is mostly around 60 meters. It is best to give you enough space for each curve. Furthermore, the inner part of the bend should have a radius of at least 14 meters. These measurements assist drivers turn vehicles safely (especially on steep or hilly roads).
Why Are Road Mirrors or Guardrails Placed with Hairpin Bend Signs?
You will find convex mirrors and guardrails (type of road barrier) installed near hairpin bends. The purpose of these protective physical measures is to increase safety of drivers and minimize the chances of crashes.
For example: road mirrors will guide you about oncoming traffic around sharp curves. While, guardrails installed on road edges to prevent vehicles from going off the road.
Where Hairpin Bend Sign is located?
Mountain or Hilly Roads
In these zones, hairpin bends in steep zones can be dangerous for you due to limited visibility. That’s why the hairpin corner sign is placed to alert you early. So, you can control your car speed and avoid accidents.
Winding Roads Near Valleys/Rivers
Sharp curves are very common on twisting roads. Haripin turn signage is installed to protect your vehicle from slipping or falling off the road edge.
Forest
In forest regions, the dangerous road turn may be blocked by trees or other objects. Bends signs are helpful for you to avoid unexpected bends and you can maintain control over your automobile too.
Rural Routes
On rural roads, hairpin bends can be narrow and sharp. There is also no proper lighting on the path. The signs warn drivers early and warn you to slow down. This makes it easier to navigate safely through these turns.
Hairpin Bend Sign Installation Rules
For the installation of traffic safety signs, you have to follow some set standards.
- You must place the sign before the road bend.
- The symbol on the sign should match with the turn’s direction.
- The bottom of the sign should be 2.15 meters above the road. For cycle lanes, you have to mount the hair bend sign at the height of 2.40 meters.
are hairpin Bend Signs Mandatory on All Highways
Hairpin bend signs are not required on every highway. However, it’s important to place them where road turns are hard to see. For example: on winding or mountainous roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If Drivers Ignore Hairpin Bend Signs?
If a driver does not follow hairpin bend sign instructions, it may lead to loose control of the vehicle and dangerous crash. Your car may collide with an oncoming car. Violation of this sign is more risky in hilly areas.
Why Do They Call It a Hairpin Bend?
It’s known as a hairpin bend because the road turns sharply like a hairpin/bobby pin. The shape of the curve is almost a 180-degree turn, which makes the name easy for you to visualize.
Why Do Some Roads Have Multiple Hair Pin Turns Instead of a Straight Path?
Hairpin turns are designed to go up or down steep hills safely. This reduces the slope angle, so vehicles can drive more easily with control of speed.
Can We Provide a Transition Length For Hairpin Bends When Designing Highway Curves?
Yes, highways usually include a transition length (section of road ahead of a curve) before hairpin bends. This gives you enough distance to slow down and safely navigate the sharp turn.
Final Note
To sum up, the hairpin bend sign is not only a simple road symbol. It represents caution, awareness and safe driving on sharp curves. If you are involved in a road safety project, we recommend you to use highly visible signs made with reflective sheets.
You can also have a discussion with us to get a complete road safety solution and guidance on correct placement of traffic signs.
