Accident, Collide in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “accident,” which can also refer to collisions, crashes, pile-ups, or smashes, is commonly used in the NZ Deaf community to discuss events involving vehicles or unexpected mishaps. This sign encapsulates the seriousness of such situations and is often seen in safety discussions or storytelling about personal experiences.

How to Sign “Accident, Collidecollision, Crash, Pile-Up, Smash, Vehicle Crashaituā, Tukinoun; Verb” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat shape (like an open B handshape).
2. Position your hands in front of your body, facing each other, at about chest height.
3. Quickly move your hands towards each other as if they are colliding.
4. As you bring your hands together, tighten your facial expression to show urgency or seriousness.
5. Optionally, you can add a shaking motion with your hands to emphasize the impact.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use a serious facial expression, which is crucial to convey the sign’s meaning accurately.
• Using the wrong handshape, such as a fist instead of a flat hand, can lead to confusion.
• Not moving the hands together quickly enough may make the sign less impactful.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “accident” focuses on the action of collision with a flat handshape, while in ASL, the sign may use different handshapes and movements. This reflects the unique evolution of NZSL, which has been influenced by British Sign Language (BSL) and local signs.

Related Signs

• (Be) Careful – a sign used to indicate caution.
• (Be) Passive – a sign that conveys a sense of inaction or submission.
• (Be) Carefulbeware, Caution, Cautious, Handle With Care, Take Care, Watch Out For(Kia) Tūpatoverb – emphasizes the need for caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “There was an accident on the road,” using the sign for accident to describe the event.

Are there regional variations for this sign across New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression.

Are there similar signs I should know about?

Yes, signs like “crash” or “collision” are closely related and may use similar hand movements.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions, and consider watching videos of native signers.

Can I use this sign in casual conversation?

Yes, it’s appropriate for both formal and informal discussions, especially when talking about traffic safety.

Is this sign used in storytelling?

Absolutely! It’s a great sign to use when recounting events or experiences involving accidents.