Hand Signal Nightmares

[Popoki_Nui]

I've ridden with several groups in Austin and we all use the right arm with a pointed finger. How can anyone misunderstand that gesture?

-because drivers are taught to watch for left-arm signals, and haven't a clue what pointing with the right arm means...they think you're pointing at something not making a signal,
-because most drivers can't see the right-arm-out signal as well as they can see the left-arm-up one, especially in traffic, downtown, when you're cruising in a group
-because in most normal places, one set of arm signals applies to ALL vehicles on the road...cars and bikes...and that would be left-arm signalling only
-because a cyclist is often slowing in preparation for the turn, and using the right arm to signal means using the left hand to work the FRONT brake....often a great way to eat your handlebars and get those shiny new teeth you've always wanted. I've actually seen people swap brakes from left-handle/front brake, to left-handle/rear brake to avoid this. No kidding.
Around here...left-arm signalling is the law. Using the right arm to signal right is "acceptable" according to local spokeheads, but the lawyers say if you get into or cause a wreck, then you're in deep doo-doo.