Basic Hand Signals for Cyclists – Bicycle Safety Campaign


Basic hand signals are an important communication tool for cyclists. They increase safety by indicating to drivers and other road users what you intend to do.

Cyclists use hand signals to indicate turns, stopping, or slowing down and road hazards.

Left turn:

Extend your left arm away from your body to shoulder height pointing straight out.

Right turn:

You have two options to indicate a right turn. Extend your left arm out horizontally with hand and forearm raised upward at a 90-degree angle.

An alternate right turn signal is to extend your right arm away from your body to shoulder height pointing straight out.

Slowing down or stopping:

Extend your left arm out horizontally with hand and forearm pointing downward at a 90-degree angle. Your palm is open and pointing back.

Road hazards:

When cycling with a group it is important to point out road hazards such as potholes, or debris to the cyclists riding behind you. Extend your arm, point to the obstacle in the ride-line, and should out!

Important tip:

Make eye contact with other road users when necessary to make sure you have been seen.

Safe cycling!

For more information, please visit us via the following:

Bicycle NL Website

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Bicycle NL Twitter

Bicycle NL Instagram

About the Author

By marketing-external / Administrator, bbp_participant on Sep 27, 2020