Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

29_smrightturnWe’ve got our winners in the “How do I signal a right turn” contest. The question was regarding how to properly and legally signal a right hand turn while riding a bicycle.

In truth, the question was kind of a gimme – there are two correct answers. The first, which most people gave as their answer, is by holding the left arm out, bent at a 90 degree angle pointing up. This is the signal required by the DMV for use in automobiles – which makes sense. This is also what motorcyclists use, so the right hand can remain on the throttle. So yes – right arm at 90 degree angle is correct.

However, the DMV also has this to say:

Bicyclists may give right turn-signals with their right arm held straight out, pointing right.

So which is “better?” That’s a good question. Me personally, I use my right hand, held straight out to the right. I personally feel this is more definitive – there is no mistaking that I am pointing to the right. And it eliminates the possibility of motorists behind me mistaking my hand gesture for something less … helpful. As always though, follow your local laws, and do what you believe makes you safer on the road.

And now to the winners.

There was only one incorrect answer submitted: “Why bother. They won’t see you anyways” Soooo not helpful.

putthefun_sticker_white_smSo the three randomly selected winners are:

  • Jackie. Submitted via email. Jackie answered with the bent left arm.
  • Phil. Submitted via email. Phil also went with the bent left arm.
  • Doug. Submitted via comment to the original contest. Doug answered with the right hand.

Congrats to all! Send me your postal address to [email protected] and I’ll get your sticker shipped out to you this week. Since I have an email address for all three, I’ll drop you an email as well.

Happy signaling.