Driving in a turn

Driving in a Curve requires that you adjust your speed before the curve and maintain steady acceleration through it. Excessive speed entering a curve is one of the most common causes of accidents on Norwegian roads.

Basic Principle

1. Brake before the curve to the correct speed
2. Maintain steady acceleration through the curve
3. Accelerate gently out of the curve

Braking within the curve itself reduces road grip and can cause skidding. Read more about the relationship between speed and curves .

Forces in the Curve

When the car turns, centrifugal force acts outward. The higher the speed and the sharper the curve, the greater the force. The tires must handle this force in addition to braking force and acceleration.

Positioning in the Curve

• Right turn: Stay in the middle of the lane or slightly to the left for better visibility
• Left turn: Stay in the middle of the lane, do not cut across into the oncoming lane
• Always look through the curve to where you want to go, not just right in front of the car

Eye Guidance

Your gaze controls the driving. Look far ahead in the direction of the curve, not down at the road immediately in front. Where you look, you instinctively steer the car. Good eye guidance also gives you early warning of hidden dangers in the turn.

Special Conditions

• Ice and snow: Reduce speed drastically. Even gentle steering can cause skidding. See winter driving .
• Rain: Risk of aquaplaning increases in curves where water accumulates.
• Blind curve: Adjust speed so that you can stop within the visible distance .

Common Mistakes

• Too high speed entering the curve and panic braking mid-curve
• Cutting the curve into the oncoming lane
• Looking at the roadside instead of through the curve
• Accelerating too early before the car is straightened out

Further Reading

• Speed in curves
• Adjusted speed and hidden danger
• Brakes and braking systems
• Emergency braking and evasive maneuvers