Motorcyclists often ride in a group and must communicate with other riders. Even if the motorcycle has turn signals, there are far more things that the rider may need to communicate with both fellow riders and other drivers on the road. The only way to communicate is through hand signals, although riders must be informed about when they will take their hands off the handlebars. Here are some common hand signals motorcyclists use when communicating on their bikes.
Turn Signals
The first set of signals involves turns. When a rider intends to make a left turn, they should hold their left arm straight out in a flat manner. When the turn is to the right, the rider should put their left hand up at a right angle to signal the direction of their turn.
Signals to Change Speeds
Another set of signals involves a decision to change speeds. If the lead rider wants to speed up, they will hold their left hand down with the palm facing upward. The rider would swing their arm upward to show they intend to increase speed. The signal to decrease speed is almost the opposite. Here, the arm would be pointing down, and the rider would move their arm down several times to show that they intend to go slower.
Signals to Alert of Danger
It is helpful for riders to signal each other to alert them to danger ahead. If a rider makes a motion with their right foot, it shows that there is danger to the ride. If the signal is pointing at something specific with the left index finger, it is a sign of upcoming danger to the left. When motorcyclists are traveling in a group, Riders should alert each other to problems so each can stay vigilant.
Signals to Stop or Exit
Sometimes, one of the riders wants to pull off the road. They need to signal the entire group so they can exit together. A clenched fist means that one of the riders wants to take a comfort stop. Bending a left arm down with the palm open means that a rider wants to stop for whatever reason. When riders want to pull off the road, they will point their index finger on the left hand to the sky and hook it to the right to signify an exit.
Always Be Safe When Making Hand Signals
Even when a rider makes a signal, they should keep one hand on the bars. A motorcycle rider should never take both hands off the bars because they would lose the ability to steer and control the bike. Thus, hand signals always have one hand, usually with the left one.
Hand signals are a valuable way of communication between riders and a way to lessen the danger. Nonetheless, motorcyclists must focus on the road to the fullest extent possible to remain safe.
You may be entitled to substantial financial compensation if a motorcyclist is injured in an accident. First, you must prove that a driver was responsible for the accident. Second, you must demonstrate your damages to the insurance company and fight for every dollar you get.
Contact a New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Bikers Have Rights
A New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer at Bikers Have Rights can help you deal with the challenges involved in the legal process. Call 215-525-1616 or 877-333-0300 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Our office is in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, and we help injured clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.