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Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question: I have some new drivers in our house. We got talking the other day and they didn’t know what “hand signals” were. Can you write about that to help inform others that might not be aware?

Answer: Congratulations on the new drivers. That is an exciting and concerning time as you help them get more experience and confidence as they undergo the process.

When the signal is given by means of the hand and arm the driver shall indicate intention to start, stop, or turn by extending the hand and arm from and beyond the left side of the vehicle in the following manner and these signals shall indicate as follows:

Left turn: hand and arm extended horizontally

Right turn: hand and arm extended upward, except that a bicyclist or motorcyclist may extend the right hand and arm horizontally to the right side of the bicycle or motorcycle.

Stop or decrease speed: hand and arm extended downward.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848; or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.