The three key hand signals every driver must know
One major motoring company has told drivers to learn their hand signals in case lights on their vehicle start to malfunction. The latest data from the DVSA reveals that lights and signalling issues account for 25% of all MOT failures.
While we might think of hand signals as being a bit old fashioned, they’re still extremely important for when indicators fail, either by lights bulbs blowing or another electrical malfunction. One way this is noticed by drivers is if their indicator blinks unusually quickly, that can be a sign that there’s a fault.
As such, considering how common these issues are, Bristol Street Motors is reminding drivers that it is vital to know how to communicate your intent to other road users if your lights malfunction when you’re driving. They also say unpredictable behaviour is one of the leading causes of accidents on UK roads, accounting for 18% of all crashes.
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In response to these findings, they have shared three essential hand signals every road user should know.
1. How to signal a slow down or stop
If your brake lights are malfunctioning, motorists behind you won’t know if you’re about to slow down or stop. In these situations, and when it is safe to do so, you can still alert other motorists of your intentions by sticking your arm out the window and waving it up and down.
Just make sure your palm is facing down towards the road, and you’re waving at a nice, steady pace. That way, drivers behind you will get the message loud and clear!
2. How to signal a right turn
When preparing to make a right turn or move into the right lane, you can signal to other drivers by extending your right arm straight out of the window, with your palm facing forward.
However, before you signal to other motorists, always check your mirrors and your surroundings to ensure it’s safe to put your arm out of the window. You should also give yourself plenty of time to signal and hold that position until you’re ready to turn.
3. How to signal a left turn
Signalling a left turn or lane change also involves extending your right arm out the window with your palm facing forward. However, the key difference is that you should make small counterclockwise circles with your hand. The smoother your movements, the easier it is for other drivers to understand your signal.
Before turning, always check your rear-view and left-side mirror to ensure it's safe, giving yourself plenty of time to complete the manoeuvre. This is even more important when moving into a lane on your left, as those drivers may not have noticed the hand signal out of your right-hand window.