WNC Motorcycle Etiquette and Hand Signals

Etiquette on a motorcycle is knowing the rules of the road, and having respect for other riders, automobiles, pedestrians, and most of all the environment. If you don't understand this basic principle, then I suggest you stay off of our WNC roads. The following are a few short guidelines.

• Remember you are often not seen by other drivers, so make sure other motorists can see you. Don’t ever assume you are seen, even if you make eye contact with other drivers. A good way to be seen is to ride in view of rear-view mirrors and to wear bright colors. Using your horn is not rude, it lets others know where you are.
   
• If another motorcyclists wants to pass, make room and clear them when they are in safe zones to pass.
   
• Don’t tailgate. Tailgating decreases your buffer zone, your ability to see ahead, and your life expectancy.
   
• Wave to fellow motorcyclists. One type of motorists is not superior to another, you are both enthusiasts for the freedom of riding on two wheels. It seems like a silly custom but we Western North Carolinians do it, so don't be a snob.
   

Hand Signals

Start Your Engines & Lets Go! With either arm extended and finger pointing to the sky, rotate your hand in a circular pattern.	Universal Left Turn Signal Raise your left arm, parallel to the ground, with your elbow fully extended, and point.	Universal Right Turn Signal Raise your left arm with your elbow bent 90 degrees vertically towards the sky.
Road Hazard Left Point to the hazard in the street on the left, giving other riders a heads up to its presence.	Road Hazard Right Point to the hazard in the street on the right, giving other riders a heads up to its presence.	Slow Down a Bit Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle downwards and move your hand up and down like you are patting something.
Unviersal Stop Signal Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle downward with the palm of your hand (or with fist closed) facing backwards.	Blue Lights up Ahead Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle downwards and point your finger to the earth. Then rotate your hand in a circular pattern. This is not a standard practice.