The Valley Surprise is the first long sweeping turn north of Summit Road with its sharp angle and steep entering downhill slope.  It is named for the fact that so many strike the median shortly after having entered the Santa Clara Valley.

It generally only affects those travelling north on 17 directly, since they may have built up some speed on the relatively straight and flat section of road near the restaurants at the Summit. The turn isn't that sharp, but on wet pavement or when traffic stops or slows it can get quite exciting for all involved. Those on the southbound side just get to look at the results, however. 

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