Basic Driver Hand Signals: Turn Right, Left, Stop – Guest Post

Every driver needs to use basic driver hand signals as standard practice since these methods prove vital when your car loses operational turn signals or brake lights. They allow you to inform other drivers about your intentions.

Hand signals become mandatory according to state laws in various parts of the U.S. under specific driving circumstances. Both regular drivers and those looking to become truck drivers need to understand these signals and how to use them.

When Should Drivers Use Hand Signals Instead of Turn Signals?

Hand signals are required for vehicle control whenever turn signals, or brake lights don’t work. Drivers must signal by hand only when their electric devices fail to function. The drivers approaching your vehicle need to see and understand your vehicle maneuvers, especially during turning maneuvers or lane changes.

Basic Driver Hand Signals Every Driver Must Know

It’s mandatory to understand basic driver hand signals, such as left and right turn signals, and stop/slow down signals. The signals require you to hold your left arm outside the window, using the driver’s side window to show your intention when turn signals don’t work. For future drivers it’s essential to use signals properly as they would use them on a daily basis.

These signals are:

• Left Turn
• Right Turn
• Stop or Slow

How Do You Signal a Right Turn Using Hand Signals?

When making a right turn, extend your left arm through the window before raising your elbow at a ninety-degree angle with your palm forward. Drivers can identify this signal, which requires adequate time to ensure those trailing behind you spot it.

Make sure your turn is clear before starting your right turn by rapidly checking your mirror, then blind spots, and confirming road safety. When driving in the rightmost lane, signal early with caution.

What is the Correct Way to Signal a Left Turn?

Left-hand turns require pushing the left arm with a straight extension out the window, facing the front with the palm facing forward. Your extended hand signals to other road users that you intend to turn. The precise signaling of your turn intentions is necessary for all following traffic and vehicles in nearby lanes.

A driver should signal their turn at least 100 feet before making the maneuver while inspecting their environment for safety.

How Do You Signal to Stop or Slow Down Safely?

You should signal a stop or slow down by holding your left arm straight from the window with the back side of your palm facing back. When you extend your left arm out of the window, you warn those behind you that they need to reduce their speed.

Traffic signals, along with approaching crosswalks and malfunctioning brake lights, benefit from this gesture. Maintain your arm motionless until your vehicle draws near to its halt. Taking care of your vehicle helps both your driving safety and stopping signals, while taking care of your career delivers similar benefits.

Author’s Name: Hlib Yatsenko

Author’s Description: Hlib is an Editor-in-Chief at Made for Lives. He is passionate about writing in-depth articles on various topics for different online platforms and sharing his knowledge and experience.