Roundabouts

Purpose of Roundabouts

Roundabouts allow traffic to merge or cross paths without always needing to stop.

Priority

  • Normally, give way to traffic from your right.

  • Keep moving if the way is clear.

  • Some roundabouts have ‘Give Way’ signs on the roundabout itself, or traffic lights controlling flow.

Always use the MSM/PSL routine on approach.

Standard Procedure (Unless Signs Indicate Otherwise)

Going Left

  • Signal left on approach.

  • Stay in the left lane throughout.

  • Maintain your left signal until you exit.

Going Straight Ahead

  • No signal needed on approach.

  • Approach in the left lane (or next available lane if blocked).

  • Signal left after passing the exit before the one you need.

Turning Right or Full Circle

  • Signal right on approach.

  • Use the right-hand lane and maintain the signal.

  • Signal left after passing the exit before yours.

More than Three Lanes

  • Use the most appropriate lane for your route.

  • Follow all road markings carefully.

Defensive Driving at Roundabouts

  • Watch the vehicle in front carefully — don’t assume it will keep moving.

  • Be ready to stop if it hesitates.

  • Many rear-end collisions occur at roundabouts due to misjudged movement.

Common Hazards

  • Pedestrians: crossings may be located near entries/exits.

  • Cyclists & horse riders: may stay to the outer lane even when turning right.

  • Motorcyclists: harder to see; always double-check.

  • Large vehicles: may straddle lanes — give them space.

  • Slippery surfaces: especially in wet weather — avoid harsh braking or acceleration.

  • Other vehicles: may cross your path to exit — anticipate their movement.

Mini-Roundabouts

Approach as you would a normal roundabout:

  • Slow down and be ready to give way to the right.

  • Space and time are limited, so signalling opportunities may be shorter.

  • Give way to vehicles turning right towards you.

  • Only enter once you’re sure vehicles already on it are leaving.

  • Avoid using mini-roundabouts for U-turns, though others may do so.

  • You must drive around the central marking unless it’s physically impossible (e.g., with a long vehicle or trailer).

Double Mini-Roundabouts

  • Treat each roundabout separately.

  • Give way to the right at both.

  • Observe carefully before entering each one.

Spiral Roundabouts

  • Lanes spiral outward toward exits.

  • Follow lane markings carefully from entry to exit.

  • Stay alert for drivers changing lanes unexpectedly.

  • If you need to change lanes, check mirrors, signal, and move only when safe.

Multiple Roundabouts

At large, complex junctions, a major roundabout may include several mini-roundabouts.

  • Each mini-roundabout follows standard clockwise rules.

  • Traffic around the central island may move anti-clockwise.

  • Follow signs, lanes, and markings precisely.

  • Maintain full concentration and awareness at all times.

Remember LADA

Always:

  • Look

  • Assess

  • Decide

  • Act

Safe and consistent use of these principles ensures smooth, defensive, and responsible driving through any junction.

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