What does it mean when a motorcyclist’s left arm is bent at the elbow and pointed upwards?

Use this motorcycle practice test question to prepare for the real written exam at the DMV or during your motorcycle safety course. 

What does it mean when a motorcyclist’s left arm is bent at the elbow and pointed upwards?

1. Stopping. 
2. Turning left.
3. Turning right.
4. Making a U-turn. 

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: C. Turning right.

How’d you do? Learn more about this motorcycle topic below. 

Explanation: Motorcycle Hand Signals

In order to pass your motorcycle permit exams and to become a safe rider, it’s important to know why a particular answer on the motorcycle written test is correct. 

The basic hand signals for motorcyclists are the same as the hand signals for other drivers. 

When the left arm is bent at the elbow at 90 degrees with the hand pointed upwards, it means that the rider is planning to make a right turn. 

Hand signals can be a good way to communicate your intentions with drivers around you. 

Since a motorcycle’s turn signals can be small and hard to notice, using a hand signal can help to better get the attention of other drivers so that they can anticipate and adjust to what you are doing. 

When riding in a group, motorcyclists can use other types of hand signals to quickly communicate with the riders behind them. 

You can find more information about this topic in the motorcycle rider’s handbook.

Check out more motorcycle permit test questions and answers here.

Find in-depth articles for new riders in our section dedicated to learning how to ride a motorcycle.

Plus, check out an overview of the requirements to get a motorcycle endorsement in each state.