Mastering Driver Hand Signals

How to Signal a Right Turn (Hand Signals)
Correct hand signaling is a core requirement of the South African K53 driving test.
While your vehicle is equipped with indicators, being able to execute a manual right-turn signal is mandatory for demonstrating full control and communicating with other road users if your lights are obscured or failing.

1. Initial Observation

• Check your rear-view mirror(s) to monitor traffic behind you.
  
• Check the blind spot on your right to ensure no vehicles or cyclists are positioned where mirrors cannot see them.
  
  2. Activate Electronic Indicators
  
• Inform surrounding traffic of your intent by activating your right direction indicators. Under K53 rules, electronic signals should always precede hand signals to give immediate notice to other drivers.
  
  3. Secondary Blind Spot Check
  
• Safety is repetitive for a reason. Perform a second check of the blind spot on your right immediately before you prepare to extend your arm out of the window.
  
  4. Executing the Hand Signal
  To signal a right turn, you must use a clear, unmistakable gesture:
  
• Extend your right arm horizontally from the shoulder.
  
• Ensure the palm of your hand is facing to the front.
  
• Hold the arm steady to ensure drivers behind and in front of you have clearly seen the signal.
  
  5. Executing the Hand Signal
  Once the signal has been clearly displayed for a sufficient amount of time, retract your arm back into the vehicle in good time. Do not wait until the last second before the turn to bring your arm back inside.
  
  
  6. Steering Wheel Recovery
  Before you take any further action, replace your hand in the appropriate position on the steering wheel. This must be done before you begin:
  
• Braking.
  
• Changing gears.
  
• Changing direction.