A driving instructor has taken to social media to clarify the meaning of police hand signals, which many drivers find confusing. Annie, a theory test instructor, shared a TikTok video explaining the most common gestures used by officers to direct traffic.
Annie outlined the 'stop' signal, where an officer raises a fully extended arm vertically, requiring drivers to halt immediately. This gesture is typically used at roadblocks or during traffic control. She also explained the 'turn right' signal, which involves an arm extended horizontally with the elbow bent at a right angle and pointing upwards.
For 'turn left', the officer holds their arm straight out horizontally. The 'slow down/proceed with caution' signal is indicated by an arm moving up and down, instructing drivers to reduce speed or advance carefully. Annie emphasised that understanding these signals is essential for road safety.
Viewers responded positively, with one commenting: 'Thank you so much for that - really helpful.' Another wrote: 'I didn't know, but now I do. Thank you.' The Highway Code states that drivers must stop when requested by a police officer, and failure to do so is an offence. Officers can also request to see driving licence, insurance and MOT certificates, with a seven-day window to produce them if not carried.
