Hand signaling is essential when the signal lights of a vehicle are damaged or absent. Till you reach the nearest mechanic and get the problem resolved, these signals might help save your life and the lives of others around. WheelZine provides a printable chart as well as useful information on each signal, in the content that follows.
Did You Realize?
Almost all hand signals require the rider to use his left hand, or the hand used to operate the clutch lever; this enables the rider to grasp his/her right hand on the front brake lever firmly, and make a quick stop when needed.
Hand signaling is most essential in three cases: firstly, they are required when a particular vehicle is old and does not have electric signal lights; secondly, if you discover that the signal lights of your motorcycle aren’t working, you’ll surely need these signals on your way to getting them fixed; the third case is a bit different, if you’re riding with a group and need to pass a common message like ‘stop’, ‘turn-left’, or ‘pull over’, these signals would be of great use.
Several countries even count cycles as vehicles, and as cycles do not have signal lights, they have no option other than hand signaling. Hand signals even help avoid accidents, and to convey important messages without any confusion. Although all symbols aren’t universal, many of them are commonly followed all over the world.
Let’s take a quick peek at these signals, and the significance of each. Also, for your convenience, we have provided a printable chart at the end that can be used for informative purposes.
Extend the left arm straight out with the palm facing down.
Extend the arm out bending upwards at a 90-degree angle, with the fist clenched.
Extend the left arm out with the palm facing upward, and do an upward swinging motion.
Do the exact opposite here; extend the arm out with the palm facing downward, and do a downward swinging motion.
Extend the left arm and bend it downwards at an angle of 90 degrees, with the fist clenched. The exact opposite of a right turn.
Raise the left arm straight up with the palm facing forward. A quick swing of the palm in the forward direction can be done.
Extend the arm 45 degrees upward, palm faced forward pointing with the index finger, and swing the arm in an arc motion moving from backward to forward.
Extend the left arm bending 90 degrees upwards, with the index finger pointing towards the sky.
Same as single file, except that two fingers―middle and index―should be raised.
If the hazard is on the left, point towards it with your arm. If it’s on the right, use your right foot to point towards it.
Extend the left arm 45 degrees upward, and do an inward swinging motion by bending it towards the shoulder.
Extend the arm 45 degrees upward, palm faced forward pointing with the index finger, and swing the arm in an arc motion moving from backward to forward.
Take the thumb of the left hand towards the mouth, as if drinking from a bottle.
Extend the arm out and point with the index finger towards the gas tank.
Road safety is very essential, especially when riding a motorcycle. So, wear a helmet and don’t hesitate to use these signals while on the street. Be safe!