Some people also don’t think you have to use your turn signal when changing lanes, but this is also not true. Many people think that if you’re in a turn lane, you don’t need to signal your turn, but this is not the case. Michigan Vehicle Code Section 257.648 states, “The operator of a vehicle or bicycle upon a highway, before stopping or turning from a direct line, shall first determine that the stopping or turning can be made in safety and shall give a signal as required in this section.” This applies even when you’re making a turn from a designated turn lane. In the state of Michigan, drivers are required to use turn signals when making all turns. But a lot of people either forget to use their turn signals or they’re unclear about when turn signals should or shouldn’t be used. While driving, it’s important to communicate your intentions with other drivers as clearly as possible and turn signals are an important tool to help you do that. According to a 2012 study by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), about 2 million car accidents every year are caused by failing to use turn signals. This study also found that 48% of drivers don’t use turn signals correctly. But not using turn signals correctly is more than just annoying, it can be very dangerous. Or maybe you’ve been behind another driver who has had their turn signal on for way too long. Maybe you’ve had to slam on your brakes after someone tried to merge into your lane without signalling first. If you're riding in an area where there are a lot of cyclists, utilizing hand signals can alert others to your intention to stop, slow down, or turn, giving them enough time to respond correctly.If you’ve ever spent any significant time driving, you’ve likely been frustrated by another driver who doesn’t seem to understand how to use their turn signals. Learning signals is essential for the safety of other cyclists in addition to motorists. While there is still a possibility that a car would drive irresponsibly and hit you while you are riding your bike, signaling your intentions can make this less likely. If possible, this can be accompanied by a circling motion.īike hand signals might help you avoid being hit by a car. When approaching a road hazard, such as a pothole, manhole cover, or drain cover, extend your arm and point to the floor. To signal fellow cyclists or other motorists to go ahead, simply fan your hand forward. Regardless of the approach you employ, make the signal around 100 feet before turning and keep your arm outstretched for about 3 seconds. Instead, stretch your left arm out to the side and turn it up at a 90-degree angle to signal a right turn. Some states prohibit this type of signal. The simplest, and most common, method is to simply stretch your right arm out to your side, as you would for a left turn on the opposite side. Make this signal roughly 100 feet before turning to notify people and to allow you to reposition your hands on your bike as you turn.Ī right turn can be signaled in two ways. Simply stretch your left arm out and bend it down at a 90-degree angle with your hand open to signal that you are coming to a halt or slowing down.įully stretch your left arm out to your side to indicate a left turn. This signal is important since, unlike cars, most bicycles don't usually have brake lights. The “stop” signal is the most commonly used hand signal by cyclists. Use this signal when you are certain that you will be applying the brakes to significantly lower your speed. With your palm facing down, move your hand up and down at the wrist letting other motorists know that you’re slowing down. Hold your left arm behind you so that other cyclists can see your signal clearly. But there's good news: learning the hand signals for things like turning and stopping isn't difficult – and it'll make cycling much safer. If you're not familiar with them, it can seem a little complicated and even overwhelming at first. Bike hand signals are a great way for cyclists to communicate intentions on the road.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |