Hairpin turn sine
Noun
A sign indicating a sharp, 180 degree turn in the road ahead.
Example usage: Be sure to watch for the hairpin turn sign when cycling around mountain roads.
Most used in: Mountainous regions with winding roads.
Most used by: Cyclists and drivers navigating hilly terrain.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: switchback, hairpin bend, hairpin corner, hairpin turn,
What is a Hairpin Turn Sign in Cycling?
A 'hairpin turn' is a sharp U-turn on a road or cycling route. It is so named because it resembles a hairpin, usually used for fastening hair. Hairpin turns can be difficult to navigate while cycling, so hairpin turn signs are used to indicate when a cyclist should expect a hairpin turn on a route.
Hairpin turn signs are typically triangular with a black border and a yellow background. The sign will feature a black symbol of a bicycle and a curved arrow indicating the direction of the turn. The sign will also usually feature the words 'Hairpin Turn' in black lettering, in case the cyclist is unfamiliar with the symbol.
Hairpin turns can be dangerous when cycling, as it requires the cyclist to quickly decrease and then increase their speed. According to a study by the University of Iowa, over 1,000 cyclists are injured or killed in accidents involving hairpin turns every year. This is why it is important for cyclists to be aware of hairpin turn signs and take caution when approaching one.
.The History Behind the Hairpin Turn Sign
The Hairpin Turn sign is a familiar sight to cyclists, marking the sharp turns on roads and trails. The term was first used in the late 19th or early 20th century in Europe, especially in the mountainous regions of Switzerland and France.
The term was likely derived from the shape of the sign, which resembles a hairpin – a type of clothing fastener used primarily by women in the 19th century. The sign is also known as a “switchback” sign, as the turns resemble the switchback railroad, which was popular in the late 1800s.
The Hairpin Turn sign quickly became a standard in cycling, as it is an important reminder for cyclists to slow down and take caution when navigating the sharp turns. It is now a ubiquitous sight in many cycling areas.
