The Hand Signals for Driving: Right, Left, Stop [Video] | Zutobi (2024)

by Zutobi · Updated Oct 16, 2023

Regardless of experience level, it’s crucial for all drivers to understand hand signals for actions like turning, changing lanes, or braking. Even if you don’t intend to use them, you can be certain other drivers will. Continue reading this article for a comprehensive guide on hand signals and their proper use.

What are the Hand Signals for Driving and Why Do They Matter?

3 basic hand signals:

1. Stop hand signal: extend your arm downwards with your palm facing backward.
2. Left turn hand signal: hold your arm straight out of the window.
3. Right turn hand signal: extend your arm upwards at a 90° angle.

Knowing these gestures is essential to keeping yourself and others safe. According to the NHTSA, warning other drivers of your intentions makes the difference between staying safe and being involved in an accident.

Slow Down or Stop Hand Signal

To show others on the road that you’re about to slow down or stop, you should reach your arm down with your palm facing backward. Make sure your arm is clearly visible to other drivers behind you.

Left Turn Hand Signal

To show the left turn hand signal, hold your arm straight out through the window. Use it before changing lanes or turning to the left.

Right Turn Hand Signal

To indicate the right turn hand signal, you should extend your arm at a 90° angle upwards with your palm facing forward. When changing lanes to the right, be aware that vehicles already on your right side won’t see the hand signal you make from your driver’s seat.

When to Use Hand Signals?

You must use hand signals when:

• You have malfunctioning turn indicators.
• Your signal lights are obscured by bright sunshine or other vehicles.
• There are any other situations when your vehicle’s signals are not visible or are not functioning.

Note that every U.S. state has a law that obliges drivers to signal their intention(s) to others. But luckily, the hand signals are the same in all the states.

Hand Signals in Low Visibility Conditions

How to ensure hand signals visibility in low-light conditions:

• Illuminate Your Signals: Holding a flashlight in the hand with which you’re signaling can clarify your intentions to other drivers.
• Wear Bright Gloves: Using bright, reflective gloves can significantly enhance the visibility of your hand signals.
• Stay Extra Attentive: Scan your surroundings and make your maneuvers predictable to compensate for the reduced visibility of your signals.

Can You Replace Turn Signals With Hand Signals?

Let’s face it, using hand signals is more of a temporary solution. Being a good driver means taking care of your vehicle. By doing so, you ensure advanced safety for yourself and others. Therefore, if your car lights are malfunctioning, don’t postpone fixing the problem.

Do You Need to Know Hand Signals for the Driving Test?

Your examiner will ask you to show either one or several hand signals on the driving test. If you want to gain absolute confidence before your test, practice with Zutobi. We cover all the driving theory, making complex things interesting and easy to remember. Register today.