Right makes might

This is something we've sheepishly done for a while: pointed with our right hand to make a right turn, rather than the officially endorsed method of raising your left hand in a sort of Tonto-inspired "How" sign. The first way felt right (but wrong) and the second way felt wrong (but right).

Now that we're thoroughly confused, we're pleased to report that the Illinois legislature has passed a law that actually legalizes the right-hand-signal for turning right -- surmising that most drivers today understand that a cyclists will go in the direction he or she indicates by pointing with whichever hand is free.

Chicago Tribune today sez:

Senate Bill 80, which Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed into law last week, requires motorists to make sure there is at least 3 feet of clearance to pass a bicycle rider. Also, the law says bicyclists may now signal a right turn with their right arm extended outward, instead of using the left arm to signal all traffic maneuvers. "They may now point where they're going. That's easier for drivers to understand," said Ed Barsotti, executive director of the League of Illinois Bicyclists.

Of course, if you don't have a right arm, it should be several generations before car drivers have forgotten the old left-handed approach.

The question arises as to where this odd tradition comes from, and the answer is really easy: In a car, you'd have to scoot all the way over the other side to hand-signal your right turn.

In that illustration: Dig the winter commuter, in full Stupor Bowl getup.