Roundabouts

A roundabout is one of the best ways to help with traffic flow without making all the cars come to a complete stop. When approaching a roundabout, the view for the driver usually is open, meaning that they are able to look for gaps in the traffic that is going to let them approach and move on into the roundabout in a safe manner. If drivers are unaware of the rules of when engaging in a roundabout, then they may be opening themselves up to possible hazards and disrupting the general flow of traffic. Taking driving lessons with keendrivers means you will be taught all the hazards of driving and give you the skills you need to drive safely.

The fundamental rule of roundabouts is that the driver must give way to all traffic that is coming from immediate right side, because these cars are always going to have priority. It is common knowledge that the flow of traffic in a roundabout is always going to be guided by signs, travelling in one direction, with all cars going round the centre point. Of course, there are always contingencies to the basic guidelines. There are times that the traffic in the roundabout may have to give way to the vehicles that are entering, which is why it is always important to look for signage indicating ‘Give Way.’ Also, there are some roundabouts that are traffic light controlled, even at just certain times of the day, which means they can determine which vehicles are going to take priority.

Even though roundabouts are an amazing way to control traffic, they can be very hazardous if drivers are not looking ahead for warning signs that could indicate a possible hazard. Drivers must be aware of the advanced warning sign and the direction sign of the roundabout in order to have a well-defined understanding of the complexity of the junction ahead of them, as well as route directions. This means that it is extremely essential for drivers to pay close attention to the road marking signs both approaching the roundabout and while within the junction. It is important to always be courteous of drivers that may slow down to look at signage so that they can maintain a clear outlook on the direction they need to take. If the driver does not understand the direction they need to be taking on the roundabout, this could lead to them being confused, straddling lanes, and ultimately causing a collision. When a driver is accidentally in the incorrect lane, it is best that they do not change lanes at the last moment. Drivers should simply continue in the lane that they are in or go around the roundabout again in order to maintain safety.

Approaching the roundabout, the driver should always follow the MSPSL protocol (mirror, signal, position, speed, look) that should be practised at all junctions. To get through a roundabout in the safest possible way, it is essential for the driver to pay close attention to the signage and road markings leading up to the roundabout and during the junction, so they can be sure to pick the correct lane for their route. In determining this early, the driver is going to be able to understand the size of the roundabout and determine the speed and gear selection they need to approach the junction safely.

Many will say that second gear is the best gear to adjust to when approaching this junction, but really it is about what the driver sees that should influence how slow they need to go. If the traffic flow is heavy, they may need to shift down to first because they’re forced to come to a complete stop. Being selective with the gear choice is going to give the driver more control in the long run, so it is best to always be paying attention to each individual junction. Driving should be about control and while many people believe it is best not to change gears while within the roundabout, drivers may need to change gears in necessary moments to allow them ample control of their steering. Obviously, this is based on the size and when the driver is entering and exiting.

Regardless the direction the driver is going, there are always certain steps to follow. To go left, the driver must approach in the left-hand lane and keep in that lane throughout the roundabout. Whilst in the roundabout, the driver should maintain a left signal until exiting. Going ahead is a bit different. Drivers are not required to indicate on the approach, but once in the roundabout, it is courtesy to indicate with a left signal if the driver takes the first exit, just so others can know the driver’s intentions. This is when it is essential the driver thinks about their route prior to picking a lane. Overall, drivers should approach in the left hand lane, unless they are on a multi-lane road and have multiple options. It is also important to double check if the left lane is blocked by markings for the driver to continue on in this lane. On the roundabout, keep to the lane that is selected. Make sure to be checking the nearside mirror to have a grasp on the surroundings outside the vehicle. Once the driver has passed the exit just before their intended exit, they should begin to indicate left, giving other drivers the chance to know they will be going ahead. For going right, drivers will need to be in the right lane (or the marked lane) and indicate right on their approach. Drivers will stay in this lane, maintaining the right signal, until their exit approaches. Just after the exit before the one the driver intends to take, they will switch their indicator to the left so that surrounding drivers will know of their intended route.

Larger roundabouts can have more than three lanes in them. If this is the case, the driver is to use the more appropriate lane on the approach and throughout the roundabout. As far as the actual roundabout, the driver may need to move throughout the lanes earlier than was originally stated, but again, it is essential to pay attention to road markings and signage to follow the same procedures. Mini roundabouts may seem simpler than larger roundabouts, but it is important for drivers to always remember there is less space and time to consider their moves, so it is even more important they are ready to go when entering these junctions. Even more, there are certain areas that have double mini-roundabouts that should be treated separately. Remember the basics of giving way to the right and pay attention. The secret to every type of driving through this type of junction is defensive and observant driving in order to avoid collisions.