3 Simple Hand Gestures That Can Literally Save Your Life On The Road - Drivers Are Oblivious

Driving can be a challenging and unpredictable experience, especially when your vehicle develops a fault while on the move. In such situations, it is essential to have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the situation safely and efficiently. Recently, motorists have been advised to learn three hand signals that could come in handy in emergency situations.

These hand signals can be crucial in communicating with other drivers, pedestrians, and road users when your vehicle's usual means of communication, such as hazard lights, are not functioning. By learning these simple hand gestures, you can increase your visibility on the road, prevent accidents, and ensure your safety and the safety of others.

The three hand signals are as follows:

1. Arm Straight Up: This signal is used to indicate that you are going to slow down or stop suddenly. To make this signal, stretch your dominant arm straight up above your head with your palm facing forward. This signal is particularly useful when you are approaching an intersection or a pedestrian crossing and need to alert other drivers or pedestrians to your intention to slow down or stop.
2. Arm Straight Out to the Side: This signal is used to indicate that you are going to change direction or turn. To make this signal, stretch your dominant arm straight out to the side of the vehicle, parallel to the ground, with your palm facing forward. This signal is essential when you are approaching a junction or an intersection and need to alert other drivers to your intention to change direction.
3. Arm Bent at a 90-Degree Angle: This signal is used to indicate that you are going to slow down or stop due to an emergency or a hazardous situation. To make this signal, bend your dominant arm at a 90-degree angle, with your forearm parallel to the ground and your palm facing forward. This signal is particularly useful when your vehicle has developed a fault or is experiencing a mechanical issue, and you need to alert other drivers to the situation.

Learning these three hand signals can be a lifesaver in emergency situations, and it is essential for all motorists to have this knowledge. By incorporating these hand gestures into your driving routine, you can increase your visibility, prevent accidents, and ensure your safety on the road.

Furthermore, it is crucial to note that these hand signals should be used in conjunction with other safety measures, such as hazard lights and road flares, to maximize their effectiveness.

In addition to learning these hand signals, motorists are advised to stay calm and alert in emergency situations and to follow the necessary procedures to ensure their safety and the safety of others.