Police officer hand signals

At an intersection a police officer's hand signals overrule traffic lights, give way rules and any other signs.

Dipped headlights should be used at night so that you don't dazzle the officer.

Police will direct traffic in the following situations

• The traffic lights are not working
• Unusually heavy localised traffic, for example if an event is on
• Accident is blocking one or more lanes
• Road surface is compromised, e.g. spillage

The hand signals police officers use are internationally recognised.

Beckon vehicles coming from the front. If you are facing the officer you can drive past the officer.

Beckon all vehicles from the right, saying that they can pass straight through.

Beckon vehicles approaching from the left and stopping vehicles facing him.

Stopping all vehicles

Vehicles from the left that want to turn right are stopped.

Vehicles from the right are stopped. Vehicles from the left are allowed to turn right.

Vehicles coming from the right and turning right can proceed. Vehicles from the left are stopped.

Vehicles approaching from behind must stop.

Vehicles in front and behind must stop.

Vehicles approaching from the front must stop