Warning sign · W205
Sharp curve ahead sign (W205)
A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
What does the sharp curve ahead sign mean?
A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
What should you do?
Prepare before the bend and steer smoothly.
| Sign code | W205 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Warning signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the sharp curve ahead sign
A triangle with a tight bend arrow, the opposite hand to W204.
Where you will see it
On any public road before a sharp curve in the direction shown.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Prepare before the bend: slow, choose a suitable gear and steer smoothly through.
The common mistake
A sharp curve often hides oncoming traffic. Keep to your own side of the road.
Why this sign matters
A tight bend with limited visibility can hide oncoming traffic. The sign asks for a speed that allows you to stop in the distance you can see.
About warning signs
Warning signs tell you about a hazard ahead so you can slow down and prepare. They are red-bordered triangles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the sharp curve ahead sign (W205) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: warning signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: prepare before the bend and steer smoothly.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Warning signs and temporary road controls.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the sharp curve ahead sign with these:
Sharp curve ahead (W204)A triangle showing a tight bend arrow.
Gentle curve ahead (W202)A triangle with a gentle bend arrow. A left and a right version exist.
Curve ahead (W203)A triangle with a curve arrow, the paired version of W202.Test yourself: Sharp curve ahead sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
- A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
- This route is for pedestrians.
Show the answer
Answer B: A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
Prepare before the bend and steer smoothly.
Memory tip: W205 · Sharp curve ahead
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Do not enter with a motor vehicle.
- Prepare before the bend and steer smoothly.
- Stop completely. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
Show the answer
Answer B: Prepare before the bend and steer smoothly.
Sharp curve ahead: A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
Memory tip: Prepare before the bend and steer smoothly.
All vehicle codes
Sharp curve ahead sign: quick questions
What does the sharp curve ahead sign (W205) mean?
A sharp bend lies ahead in the direction shown.
What should you do at the sharp curve ahead sign?
Prepare before the bend: slow, choose a suitable gear and steer smoothly through.
Where will you see the sharp curve ahead sign?
On any public road before a sharp curve in the direction shown.
What is the common mistake with the sharp curve ahead sign?
A sharp curve often hides oncoming traffic. Keep to your own side of the road.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.