This gesture on a bicycle is obligatory otherwise beware of the fine and tensions with motorists.
If some are still unaware, cyclists are, like motorists, asked to respect the Highway Code. They are subject to certain rules similar to those of car drivers and motorcycle pilots, such as respecting traffic lights, “Stop” signs and priorities, but also to other more specific ones, such as the prohibition of riding on sidewalks with the exception of children under 8 years old or wearing a reflective vest when driving outside urban areas at night.
But at a time when cars and bicycles are constantly growing together in many cities, too many users are forgetting certain essential rules. This is the case of this simple gesture that we teach children when they make their first turns of the wheel in the middle of traffic. Cyclists are required on the road to straighten their arm before turning. This gesture helps attract the attention of other users who can more easily anticipate the change of direction of the bike. Unfortunately, many cyclists do not do this, as do motorists who consider turning signals as an option.
Not extending your arm when turning is, however, a serious mistake because by indicating your direction, the cyclist significantly reduces the risk of being hit by the vehicle following them. But it is also an offense punishable by the Highway Code. In fact, any change of direction on a bicycle made without prior warning is punishable by a second class fine. In big cities, the number of cyclists who rush into a street without raising an arm are legion. Faced with this phenomenon, the police are increasingly quick to intervene and issue fines of 35 euros.
Negligence is expensive. Especially since this violation of the Highway Code is often a source of tension between “bikes” and “cars”. For better cohabitation between motorists and cyclists – a cohabitation that is often undermined, sometimes with dramatic consequences – it would be preferable for all road users to respect the rules. Especially the most essential ones.