How to Use Snowmobiling Hand Signals

Snowmobiling is an exciting winter sport activity. Whether you're a novice or an enthusiast, many of the dangers of this sport can be decreased if you know hand signals and use them to warn others of your next move.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Place your left arm straight out and even with your shoulder for a left turn signal. Your arm should be parallel to the ground.
2. Put the upper part of your arm at shoulder height parallel to the ground for a right turn. Your forearm should be vertical with the road. This signal should form the shape of the letter "L", and your hand should not be clenched.
3. Notify others that you'll be stopping. Raise your arm straight over your head. The palm of your hand should be flat.
4. Announce that you're the last snowmobiling sled in line. Lift the upper part of your arm at shoulder height parallel to the ground with your forearm vertical with the road. This signal should form the shape of the letter "L". It is exactly like the right hand turn except the fist should be clenched.
5. Use a sign to notify that sleds are following. Raise your arm in front of you with your elbow bent with your thumb pointing behind you. Move your arm and hand in this position backward past your shoulder and then forward again. Repeat as necessary to communicate.
6. Show that you're slowing down by extending your left arm out and low. This position is just below being parallel with your body. Move your entire arm and hand up and down several times.
7. Warn others of oncoming snowmobiling. Lift your arm above your shoulder with your elbow bent. Your forearm should be vertical with your body and your wrist bent. Move your hand from left to right over your head like you're pointing in the direction of the oncoming sleds.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use your left arm to indicate any sign. In some areas, the right arm may be required by law to use for the stop signal since the left hand is needed for braking.