What are the reversing hand signals?
2 Answers
Reversing hand signals include the straight-line signal, straight-line auxiliary signal, left and right turn signals, substitute turn signal, stop signal, stop auxiliary signal, vehicle slow-down signal, reversing signal, and reversing auxiliary signal. Relevant information on reversing is as follows: 1. When reversing left or right, the person should stand to the left or right side behind the vehicle, facing the vehicle, raise one hand forward to chest height with fingers together and straight, then bend and extend toward the chest, repeating the motion until the vehicle is very close to the rear obstacle, at which point they should shout "stop" or use the stop signal to halt the vehicle. 2. When reversing directly backward, the person should stand directly behind the vehicle, similar to the guiding signal, and simply lower both hands when returning to the original position. It is important to observe whether there are passing vehicles behind; generally, allow passing vehicles to proceed first before slowly directing the reversing. For parallel parking, the key points are: align parallel to the parked vehicle with a 0.5-meter gap, then reverse backward. 3. When your vehicle's rearview mirror aligns with the middle pillar of the parked vehicle's front and rear doors, start turning the steering wheel to the right, turning it all the way. When the vehicle forms a 45-degree angle with the parking space, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, and return the wheel when the front of the vehicle is straight.
As a seasoned driver who often helps others park, I know that reversing hand signals are highly practical. The basic gesture involves extending your arm toward the rear of the car, with your palm facing downward or waving backward, which means instructing the car to reverse; waving your palm upward or forward signals to stop or move forward. This method is far more effective than shouting, especially in noisy parking lots or under poor lighting conditions at night, as it prevents misunderstandings in instructions. Remember, the guide should stand in a safe position visible in the rearview mirror, making slow and clear movements to avoid startling the driver with sudden actions. I've witnessed many minor collisions due to the absence of hand signal guidance, so I highly recommend everyone learn this simple technique. Using this method while reversing significantly enhances safety, acting like an extra eye to help judge distances.