H O R İ Z O N TA L

C U RV E
Horizontal curves are one
of the most important
elements in roadway
geometry design. The
main function of a
horizontal curve is to
provide a smooth
transition between two
tangent roadway sections
to ensure roadway
driving consistency
V E RT I C A L
C U RV E
 Vertical Curves

Vertical curves are used in

highway and street vertical
alignment to provide a
gradual change between two
adjacent grade lines.
 Vertical Curves are the second of the two
important transition elements in geometric
design for highways, the first being
Horizontal Curves. A vertical curve provides a
transition between two sloped roadways,
allowing a vehicle to negotiate the elevation rate
Vertical Curves change at a gradual rate rather than a sharp cut.
The design of the curve is dependent on the
intended design speed for the roadway, as well
as other factors including drainage, slope,
acceptable rate of change, and friction. These
curves are parabolic and are assigned stationing
based on a horizontal axis.
Crest Vertical Curves and Sag Vertical Curves
Transition Curve
Transition Curve
A track transition curve, or spiral easement, is a mathematically-calculated
curve on a section of highway in which a straight section changes into a
curve. It is designed to prevent sudden changes in lateral (or centripetal)
acceleration.
S U P E R E L E VAT I O N
 Superelevation

Superelevation is a method
of infrastructure construction used in
roadway curves where the outer edge of the
pavement is raised above the inner edge. An
aspect of the vertical alignment or “profile”
of a road viewed in cross-section, it’s an
important safety element in the design
criteria of any road with curves.
Passing Sight Distance
Passing Sight Distance

Passing sight distance is the length of roadway that the driver of the passing vehicle must be able
to see initially, in order to make a passing maneuver safely.
Stopping Sight Distance
Stopping Sight
Distance The stopping sight distance is the sum of the
braking distance and the distance travelled
during the brake reaction time. In other
words, it is the length of roadway that
should be visible ahead of you, in order to
ensure that you will be able to stop if there is
an object in your path.
SSD Relations with Design Speed and Grades