Roundabouts

In this lesson, you will learn how to approach and drive around roundabouts safely, and learn about the priorities and basic rules when driving around them. You will also learn about different hazards to be aware of when driving around roundabouts.

Roundabouts allow traffic from different roads to continue moving without necessarily stopping. The aim is to keep the car moving if possible.

There are general rules for roundabouts, but it is important to look out for signs and road markings in case the rules are different.

Approaching a Roundabout

Always look well ahead for the advance warning sign to get a clear picture of the layout of the roundabout.

You should select the most appropriate lane to approach the roundabout. Signs and road markings will help you to select the most appropriate approach lane.

Get in lane in good time. If you are in the wrong lane, go the wrong way. Never change lanes at the last moment. Stay within your selected lane, don’t straddle lanes.

As you get closer to the roundabout, look at the lane you are aiming for. You need to check:

• Is the road clear, and not blocked?
• Are there any pedestrians crossing?
• Are there any roadworks?
• Is there a bus stop?

Driving around a Roundabout

Imagine the roundabout as a clock face
The exit straight ahead of you is at 12 o’clock
Any exit before the 12 o’clock exit is a left turn
Any exit after the 12 o’clock exit is a right turn

Going Left – 1st exit

• Signal left as you approach
• Approach in the left-hand lane
• Keep to the left lane on the roundabout
• Maintain a left signal through the roundabout

Going ahead

• Do not signal as you approach
• Approach in the left-hand lane
• Keep to the left lane on the roundabout
• Signal left as you pass the exit before the one you want to take

Going right

• Signal right as you approach
• Approach in the right-hand lane
• Keep to the right lane on the roundabout
• Signal left as you pass the exit before the one you want to take

Always check your middle and right door mirrors before signalling to exit a roundabout.

Before moving from the right-hand lane to the left-hand lane you will check mirrors and look out your left window. You need to know if it is safe to change lane, if another vehicle is in your way you may need to go around the roundabout again.

You should check your right door mirror as you are exiting, another vehicle may be trying to pass you.

Hazards on Roundabouts

Roundabouts can be particularly hazardous areas and you must be aware of the following when approaching and driving around them:

Pedestrians
Always be aware that pedestrians may be trying to cross the road
There are often zebra crossings located near to roundabout exits

Cyclists and Motorcyclists
They can be difficult to see on roundabouts
Cyclists should stay to the outside of a roundabout, so not take the normal path a car will take

Horse Riders
They are very vulnerable on roundabouts and will stay to the outside, so not take the normal path a car will take

Long Vehicles
They may take a different course, or straddle the lines as they approach and drive around a roundabout