3/21/2023 0 Comments Bicycle turn signalsIf a cyclist is going to be considered a vehicle and is allowed to share the road, then he or she must be able to communicate with others on the road. These signals aren’t just good to know, they are required by law. This signal cautions both riders and drivers to be aware that the cyclist is stopping or slowing down because of a traffic sign or because there is something in the road. This signal is created by making a square (90 degree angle) with your hand facing the ground. This signal is legal, but it can be confusing to motorists who may think the cyclist wants to turn left. There is an alternative right hand turn signal which involves the cyclist bringing his left hand to the square, or in other words, bringing it to a 90 degree angle. While you should make sure that on-coming cars also see you, this turn is less dangerous than the left hand turn. The best right turn signal involves the cyclist extending his right arm parallel to the road, similar to the left hand turn signal. It is important to maintain a safe distance from the cyclist, especially when they are turning left because they might have to come into traffic lanes instead of staying on the side of the road. If you are a motorist and you see a cyclist extending his arm you should slow down and allow the cyclist to start his turn. Look over your shoulder before you actually start your turn. Do not assume that the motorists see you. This is a signal in which the bicyclist extends his left arm all the way out from his body so that his arm is parallel to the road. As also found in The Utah Bicycle Accident Handbook, these hand signals can be found in the following video, descriptions, and picture. There are four important signals that both cyclists and motorists are required to know. One of the best way to establish this awareness is through the cyclist’s use of hand signals. Congested roads such as these require the bicyclist and the motorist to be more aware of each other. Some roads are wide open, with views to die for and little to watch out for, but other roads, especially those in the city, are usually congested with pedestrians, cars, motorcycles, and trucks. If you belong the the road bike group, then you have likely experienced the thrill and danger of sharing the road with cars who don’t pay much attention to you. Some of us meander off the routine bike path and head into the mountains and onto dirt paths, while others stick to the road for exercise or in pursuit of becoming diligent cyclists and athletes. Bike riding is a hobby and sport that is shared by young and old, tall and short, women and men.
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