Every car is outfitted with a signaling system that allows drivers to notify other drivers about turns, lane changes, and stops. While these systems are very easy to use, they may not always be working properly. Signaling to other drivers is vital when behind the wheel. If you’re unable to signal, you can easily avoid an accident by going the old fashioned route.
Hand signals are an excellent way to make sure you’re still signaling to other drivers even without blinking lights.
Stopping or Slowing Down Hand Signal
When someone applies pressure to the brake pedal in their vehicle, a red light on the back of the vehicle turns on. If for any reason, your brake lights aren’t working, there is a hand signal you can use instead. The hand signal for braking or slowing down is as simple as any other hand signal. Simply stick your arm out of your window pointing down. Turn your palm so it is facing the vehicle behind you.
Left Turn Hand Signal
If your vehicle’s signals are working properly, before making a left turn, you will push your signal lever down. If your signals aren’t working properly, you can use your hand to signal a left turn. As far as hand signals go, a left turn is the simplest to complete and to remember. Us this signal as a starting point when trying to remember the other two hand signals. To signal a left turn with your hand, simply stick your arm straight out of your window. The goal is to point your arm to the left essentially.
Right Turn Hand Signal
To signal a right turn, drivers can just push the signal lever up. A light on the vehicle will start blinking on the right side both on the front and back of the vehicle. If those lights aren’t currently working, no one will know that you’re about to move to the right or make a right turn. If the lights aren’t working, use a simple hand signal to let others know of your intentions. To signal a right turn with your hand, simply stick your arm out of your window, and bend it at the elbow to point up.
Signaling to other drivers about movements you plan to make while behind the wheel is critical to safety. If other drivers aren’t aware of an impending lane change or a turn, they are not able to react within a fair amount of time to ensure the safety of everyone. If your signals are not working correctly, don’t be afraid to go back to the old school signals. These signals are well-known and can help keep you and other drivers safe on the road. Even more importantly, these same hand signals are used by people on bicycles.
