Warning sign
Double bend sign
What does the Double bend sign mean?
Warns of a double bend ahead, first to the left. When the symbol is reversed, the first bend is to the right.
Also known as: S-bend sign
What it means
The road ahead bends one way and then the other. Choose a speed that lets you take both bends safely before you reach the first.
The symbol shows which way the road turns first, as you'll meet it.
You may not be able to see what's beyond the first bend, so be ready for the road to be blocked, and don't overtake.
Rules to know
The sign shows a double bend, first to the left; with the symbol reversed, first to the right.
Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 10
Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations, such as the road being blocked beyond a blind bend.
The Highway Code, Rule 146
Common mistakes
Mistake: Taking the first bend fast and running out of room for the second.
Instead: Slow down before the first bend to a speed that suits both.
Test yourself
Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.
Question 1 of 1
What does this sign mean?
Full road sign quizzes are coming soon. See what's planned
Download this sign
© Crown copyright. Free to reuse under the Open Government Licence v3.0, as long as the sign is reproduced accurately and not in a misleading context.
Related signs
Similar
Bend ahead
Warning sign
A single bend ahead.
More warning signs
All warning signs
Sources
- Know Your Traffic Signs (Department for Transport, Sixth edition, 2023), Warning signs, p. 10
- The Highway Code, Rule 146
Sign image: Department for Transport, Traffic sign images (diagram 513). © Crown copyright, reused under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Checked against these sources and reviewed by Bikash Thapa, full UK driving licence holder. Last reviewed 4 October 2026. This page explains the sign in our own words; for the full rules, see The Highway Code. How we source and check content