FIELD INTEL: LEARN YOUR SPOTTER'S SIGN LANGUAGE

It is critical to know your spotter's sign language (or hand signals) when you're out on the trail.

You might be thinking "WHAT? I don't need a spotter, I'm a great driver." but everyone needs a spotter from time to time.

WHY DO YOU NEED A SPOTTER?

Usually it's because there is a potentially serious obstacle in your way and you need to be very careful and controlled while negotiating it.

Your spotter is your eyes and really has the best view of the whole situation, so you should be focused on them, and they in turn should have an understanding of the whole situation around your vehicle.

Not knowing what your spotter is trying to tell you through their hand signals can lead to serious consequences.

WHY DO YOU NEED TO LEARN A SPOTTER'S SIGN LANGUAGE?

People look at me funny when I say this, but everyone has their own "sign language" that comes most naturally to them, and so you can get a lot of mixed signals out there on the trail– believe me, I've seen some very interesting "gyrations" happen.

The best way to overcome being confused by those gyrations is by learning your spotter's language (and they, yours) or coming up with a language that you both agree on.

THE MOST IMPORTANT SPOTTER'S SIGN

No matter what you decide, the most important one should be your signal for "ALL STOP!" This means all action (and I mean "ALL ACTION") immediately stops! This sign is shown by closing both of your hands into fists, because just holding up one fist doesn't emphasize its importance enough. You use this sign to convey that whatever is going on needs to immediately stop, because there may be a potential problem or actual emergency if you don't.

The rest of the hand signals can vary, but should be practiced with your partner and be obvious enough so that the driver can see them through a dusty windshield.

Now get out there on the dance floor (trail) and practice!