What is the hand signal for allowing a vehicle to turn left?
4 Answers
The hand signal for allowing a vehicle to turn left is when the traffic police officer points horizontally to the left side of the driver with their left hand. Below are precautions for making a left turn in a car: 1. Wide turning radius: Try to make the left turn as wide as possible. To avoid hazards such as obstruction or collision, aim to turn into a farther point. 2. Check mirrors frequently: Always check the rearview mirrors before turning to ensure there are no vehicles or pedestrians on the side or behind you. 3. Watch for blind spots: Beginners often focus only on what’s ahead or to the left, neglecting blind spots, which may lead to hitting the curb or causing a scrape. Be sure to check for obstacles below the rearview mirror, and if necessary, open the door to take a look before turning. 4. Control the steering wheel: Proper steering wheel control is crucial when turning. For a sharp turn, turn the steering wheel as much as possible and gradually straighten it after completing the turn. For a wide turn, steer slowly.
I've been driving for many years and have seen many traffic police gestures at busy intersections. The gesture allowing a left turn is usually when the officer stands facing the direction of the vehicles, raises their right hand vertically upward with the arm straight, and the palm facing forward or outward. This indicates that all vehicles, including those turning left, may proceed. As drivers, we should always observe carefully to avoid misjudging, especially during congested intersections where hand signals are more flexible than electronic lights. Some people easily confuse it with a stop signal, but in fact, a palm facing forward is a sign to proceed. I recommend that beginners watch more traffic tutorial videos or practice recognizing these gestures in safe situations. Combining hand signals with traffic lights can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure smooth travel for everyone.
Back when I was learning to drive, the instructor repeatedly emphasized the importance of traffic hand signals, especially the signal for permitting a left turn. The police officer would raise their right arm straight up, keeping the wrist still with the palm facing outward, which means you can safely make a left turn. As a beginner, don’t panic—once you see this signal, proceed confidently but don’t cut in. Nowadays, you can occasionally see this kind of manual traffic control on the road. It feels more personal than electronic signals, especially during power outages or peak hours, ensuring order. Every time I drive past, I remind myself to stay alert at intersections and avoid looking down at my phone—these small details matter for both my safety and others’.
The key to the traffic gesture allowing a left turn is when the officer raises their right arm vertically with the palm facing forward. This action is concise and clear, making it easy for drivers to recognize from a distance. I've experienced the importance of hand signals—they prevent congestion, especially at intersections, and become a lifeline when traffic lights malfunction. When driving, don't just focus on the lights; scan your surroundings. Widespread use of hand signals can reduce reckless driving, and once it becomes a habit, you won't panic in emergencies.
