Snowmobile
Hand Signals and What They Mean
The
signals depicted in the following chart should be part of every riders vocabulary.
If you have a new rider in your group, be sure to explain each signal and proper
sled etiquette for the safety of the whole group. Even seasoned riders should
refresh their memory before heading out. Don't forget about Groomer
Etiquette!
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SLOWING:
The
left arm is extended out and down from the side of the body, with a downward
flapping motion of the hand to signal warning or caution.
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RIGHT
TURN:
The
left arm is raised at shoulder height, with the elbow bent and the forearm
vertical. The palm of the hand is flat.
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ONCOMING
SLEDS:
The
left arm is raised at shoulder height with the elbow bent, the forearm
vertical and the wrist bent. The arm should move from left to right over
the head, pointing to the right of the trail.
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LEFT
TURN:
The
left arm is extended straight out from the shoulder, pointed in the direction
of the turn.
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SLEDS
FOLLOWING:
The
arm is raised with the elbow bent and the thumb pointing backward. The
arm should move in a "hitchhiking" motion from the front to
the back, over the shoulder.
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LAST
SLED IN LINE:
The
left forearm, with the palm flat, slashes repeatedly out and down at a
45-degree angle
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STOP:
Either
arm is raised from the shoulder and extended straight up over the head,
with the palm of the hand flat
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Use
of finger signals: Many riders raise their hand with one finger extended
for each member of their group that is behind them and the last rider of the
group will raise a closed fist. While this may seem helpful, finger signals
are not as visible at night and can be awkward for large groups, on busy trails,
and with bulky gloves. Instead, adopt
accepted signals for "sleds following" and "last sled in line"
especially when your group is strung out in curves.
Proper
Use of Hand Signals are Important to Groomer Operators, too!
Proper
Etiquette when Encountering a Groomer:
Oncoming
Sleds:
- Pull
off or stay to the extreme right of the trail.
- Come
to a complete stop!
- Do
Not Pass until the groomer has come to a complete stop and you are signaled
to do so! Otherwise, you risk being injured by the drag which may slide.
- Pass
slowly!
- As
you pass, signal the Operator using the same hand
signals.
- Once
you have passed, stay on your side of the trail - no matter how tempting
it may be to ride the ribbon! A freshly groomed trail needs time to freeze
in!
Following
Sleds:
- Remain
behind the groomer until it comes to a complete stop.
- Do
Not Pass until the groomer has come to a complete stop and you are signaled
to do so! Otherwise, you risk being injured by the drag which may slide.
- Don't
rev and spin your track on the freshly groomed trail.
- When
signaled that it is clear to pass, proceed slowly around the groomer and
return to your side of the trail.
- As
you pass, signal the Operator using the same hand
signals.
Don't
forget to let the operator(s) know you appreciate their efforts! Most are
volunteers and are out there because they care about our sport!
NOTES:
- Grand
Marais Groomer Operators are required to stop when they encounter
sleds along the way.
- The
operator will flash their lights to signal riders when they reach
an area with adequate room and visibility to allow riders to pass safely.
- Wait
for the operators signal!