What is the difference between left turn waiting and left turn hand signals?
2 Answers
Left turn hand signal is to extend the right hand forward with the right palm vertical, and the left hand moves from the outside of the left leg to the front at about 45 degrees. The left turn waiting hand signal involves only the left hand movement, where the left hand is raised on the left side of the body and then brought back towards the body. Below are detailed explanations: 1. Left turn signal: Hand signal meaning: Permits the vehicle to make a left turn, and a U-turn can be made if it does not interfere with the passage of other vehicles. 2. Left turn waiting signal: Hand signal meaning: Permits vehicles on the left side of the traffic police to enter the intersection, approach the center of the intersection along the left turn direction, and wait for the left turn signal. Note: The biggest advantage of setting up a left turn waiting area is to increase the capacity of left turn lanes at intersections, reduce the waiting time for drivers to pass through the intersection, and improve the traffic capacity of the intersection.
The left turn hand signal is a driving maneuver where you extend your left arm horizontally to the left, clearly indicating to other vehicles your intention to turn left. This helps others anticipate your actions and reduces accident risks. The so-called 'left turn waiting' is not a standard hand signal; it might refer to a driver's preparatory state at an intersection where they're waiting to turn left but haven't yet signaled. The key difference is that hand signals are active communications, whereas 'waiting to turn' is just a passive waiting phase without signals, which can easily cause misunderstandings. I often encounter novice drivers who turn without signaling and just wait to turn, leading to rear-end collisions or crashes—extremely dangerous. The correct practice is to use hand signals or turn indicators before turning to ensure safe passage. Especially during rainy conditions or at night when visibility is poor, hand signals become even more crucial. Make it a habit to avoid major mistakes caused by omitting signals.
