---
title: "Double Bend First Left Meaning | UK Road Signs | Fast Track"
url: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/road-signs/double-bend-first-left
description: "Learn the meaning of the double bend first to the left sign and how to navigate consecutive curves safely."
lang: en
---

# Double bend first to the left — UK road sign

This warning sign alerts drivers to a sequence of bends starting with a left turn.

Image: Double bend first to the left — red, white and black triangle UK road sign (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/signs/double-bend-first-left.svg)

The double bend first to the left sign warns drivers of two consecutive bends in quick succession, with the first curve turning left.

Consecutive bends require sustained concentration and disciplined speed control, as weight transfer between turns can affect car stability.

## What this sign means

This sign indicates that you will immediately encounter a curve to the left followed closely by a bend in the opposite direction.

- Red warning triangle framing a black S-curve symbol
- First curve moves to the left
- Warns of multiple changing road directions ahead

## What to do when you see it

Reduce your speed well ahead of the first bend. Keep a steady pace across both turns without making abrupt steering changes.

- Check mirrors before slowing down
- Maintain proper lane positioning throughout both bends
- Do not overtake while navigating double bends

## How this sign is tested

Theory test questions focus on identifying the initial direction of travel and maintaining safe speed through linked hazards.

## Common mistakes

Accelerating too soon after the first bend, leaving the vehicle travelling too fast for the secondary counter-bend.

## Test yourself on this one

Road and traffic signs is the biggest category in the question bank with 102 questions, and signs turn up inside other categories too. Work through them free, no sign-up needed.

Practise road sign questions (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/practice)

## Frequently asked questions

Which way does the second bend turn on this sign?

The sign shows the first bend turns left, so the subsequent bend curves back to the right.

Is it safe to overtake on double bends?

No, double bends severely limit forward visibility and overtaking is extremely dangerous.

Why is early speed reduction so vital for double bends?

Slowing down early gives you time to balance the car smoothly between quick changes of direction.

## Passed your theory? Get the practical booked

Your theory certificate lasts two years. Most learners who use it quickly do it with an intensive course — a block of hours with a DVSA approved instructor and a practical test at the end, instead of one lesson a week for months.

Intensive course prices: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/pricing
All courses: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/courses
Crash courses: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/crash-courses
Automatic lessons: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-lessons/automatic
Areas we cover: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-lessons-in
Driving test centres: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-test-centres
How it works: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/how-it-works
Test pass guarantee: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/test-pass-guarantee

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