What action should you take when you are turning left as a bicyclist?

Study for the South Dakota Drivers Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get exam ready!

When you are turning left as a bicyclist, signaling your intention is essential for safety and communication with other road users. Sticking your left arm out is the standard hand signal used to indicate that you are planning to turn left. This action helps ensure that drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists are aware of your change in direction, allowing them to anticipate your movement.

Using the left arm for this signal aligns with the conventions of road safety practices, as it clearly indicates to others on the road what you are intending to do. It signals your turn more effectively than simply keeping both arms down or using incorrect signals like the right arm or pointing down, which do not convey the same intention as turning left. Clear communication is especially important in shared road spaces to help prevent accidents and enhance the overall safety of all road users.