A roundabout is a junction that will if used properly, allow traffic from several different roads to merge or cross without necessarily having to stop.
Right of way
In most cases traffic approaching from your immediate right will have priority when you are looking to enter a roundabout. It is however best to keep moving if your path is clear. There are a few cases where the traffic on the roundabout has to give way to traffic that is entering. In this instance there will be give way signs and road markings indication who has priority.
There will also be some roundabouts that are controlled by traffic lights (sometimes only at peak times).
Approaching a roundabout
When approaching a roundabout, as with any type of junction or potential hazard the “MSM/PSL/LADA” (Mirror signal manoeuvre/Position speed look/Look asses decide act) routine should be employed. It is also essential that you keep an eye out for the advance warning sign. The sign will show you a clear picture of the layout, and also show you route directions.
The sign will give you enough information to enable you to choose the most appropriate lane in which to approach the roundabout. Look out also for any road markings which may direct you into specific lanes depending on your route.
- Get into the best lane early and stay in it.
- Do not straddle lanes.
- Avoid any sudden last minute lane changes.
- If possible look across the roundabout to identify your chosen exit. Doing this will help you plot the safest course through the roundabout.
Entering and exiting a roundabout.
Unless road marking or road signs dictate otherwise the following procedures should be employed at all times.
- Going left
- Check the centre and nearside exterior mirror.
- Signal left on approach.
- Approach in the left-hand lane.
- Stay in the left-hand lane on the roundabout. Be aware of any traffic in the right-hand lane.
- Keeping the left signal on through the roundabout.
- Check your centre and offside exterior mirror once clear of the roundabout.
- Going straight ahead
- Check the center and nearside exterior mirror.
- No signal is required on approach.
- Approach in the left-hand lane. If the left -hand lane is blocked use the lane next to it.
- Stay in your selected lane. Be aware of any traffic in the lane on either side of you.
- Check the center and nearside exterior mirror.
- Signal left after you have passed the exit immediately before the one you want to take.
- Check your centre and offside exterior mirror once clear of the roundabout.
- Going right or all the way round.
- Check your centre and offside exterior mirror.
- Signal to the right on approach.
- Approach in the right-hand lane.
- Stay in your selected lane and keep the signal on. Be aware of any traffic in the lane to the left of you.
- Check the center and nearside exterior mirror.
- Signal left after you have passed the exit immediately before the one you want to take.
Other considerations
It is vitally important that you keep one eye on the vehicle in front of you as you are about to enter the roundabout. Do not assume that just because you would keep going the other driver will, they may well stop while you are still looking to your right. A great many rear end shunts happen in exactly this way.
You should also keep a close eye on any pedestrians that may be attempting to cross the road just before entering or exiting the roundabout. There are often zebra crossings just before entrances and just after exits to roundabouts.
Cyclists and horse riders can also be hazardous, as they will often stay in the left-hand lane even when they want to turn right. You should take plenty of care when cyclists or horse riders are on the roundabout and make sure you leave them plenty of room. It is also sometimes difficult to see cyclists and motorcyclists so all round observation is essential.
Long vehicles may well need to plot a different course on approach to and also while on the roundabout. Because of their length they may have to straddle lanes to negotiate the roundabout. Keep a close eye on their signals and anticipate the path that the vehicle will need to take, leaving them extra room.
You should also keep a close eye on any vehicle to your right that may want to cross your path to leave at the next exit. ALWAYS BE ON THE WATCH FOR THEIR SIGNALS.
You should also be wary of the road surface as this can become polished by regular use, and slippery , especially when the road is wet. As such it is best to avoid any harsh acceleration or braking while on the roundabout.
Mini roundabouts
Mini roundabouts should be approached in exactly the same way as a normal roundabout. However, you should approach them more slowly because there is significantly less space to manoeuvre, and less time to signal, you may not have the time to signal your intention to leave the roundabout.
You should always remember that vehicles coming towards you may want to turn right, as such you should give way to them. Also make sure that any vehicle on the roundabout is going to exit before you join the roundabout.
Try to to avoid using a mini roundabout to do a U-turn, but be conscious that others vehicles may try to do so.
You must also ensure that you pass around the central markings on the roundabout and not drive straight over it. Unless you are driving a large vehicle or towing a trailer that makes it physically impossible for you to do so.