Roundabouts
- 1/15You are approaching a roundabout, the first thing you should do is
Before you even think about entering, take a good look at what is happening, what the signs say, and how the lanes are marked. This helps you make the right decisions.
A vehicle coming from your left as you approach the roundabout
Generally, the rule is that traffic already in the roundabout has priority. If someone is coming from your left and about to enter, you need to let them go first.
You are already inside the roundabout and other vehicles and entering
Once you have legally entered the roundabout, you generally have the right-of-way over vehicles that are waiting to come in. Just keep going at a safe speed in your lane.
To turn left at a roundabout, you will use
Get into the left lane well before the roundabout. This signals to other drivers that you are planning to take a left turn or maybe even a U-turn if it is allowed there.
The lane you need to use if you want to go straight ahead at a roundabout
Often, the left lane is for the first exit or going straight, while the center lane might also be for going straight or taking later exit is. Always check those road markings to be sure!
Usage of indicator when you are about to enter a roundabout
Do not signal if you are going straight ahead. If you are turning left or doing a U-turn, make sure to indicate left as you approach the roundabout.
Changing lanes while you are driving inside a roundabout
Just like on any other road, make sure to check your mirrors and use your indicator to signal before you change lanes within the roundabout. Safety first!
A car is stopped inside the roundabout
Be extra cautious and ready to stop if you need to. Do not just assume other drivers will see the stopped car.
You missed your intended exit at a roundabout
It is safer to go around again than to stop or try to reverse within the roundabout. Just keep circulating and take the correct exit when you reach it.
You wish to stop your vehicle inside a roundabout
Stopping unnecessarily within a roundabout can obstruct traffic flow and potentially cause accidents. Keep moving unless there is an emergency or you are directed to stop.
If there are multiple lanes when you are exiting a roundabout, you must move into
If you were in the left lane in the roundabout for a left turn, try to exit into the left lane of the road you are turning onto. Similarly for other lanes, maintaining your lane helps with traffic flow.
If an emergency vehicle (with flashing lights and siren) approaches a roundabout
Prioritize emergency vehicles. Assess the situation and try to clear their path as safely and quickly as possible.
You see a Give Way sign as you approach a roundabout
The Give Way sign indicates that you do not have priority and must wait for a safe gap in the circulating traffic before entering.
If you see a Stop sign as you approach a roundabout
A Stop sign has a strict requirement. You must halt your vehicle before entering the roundabout and give a safe gap to the traffic.
If you wish to overtake other vehicles while you are inside a roundabout
Overtaking within a roundabout can cause confusion and increase the risk of collisions. Avoid it unless lane markings clearly indicate it is safe and necessary for your intended exit.