12- Roundabouts

Roundabouts are becoming more common in the U.S. because they provide safer and more efficient traffic flow than standard intersections. Statistics for roundabouts have found reductions in injury crashes of 72–80 percent and reductions in all crashes of 35–47 percent when compared to other types of intersections.

When driving a roundabout, the same general rules apply as for maneuvering through any other type of intersection.

Lesson one – driving a roundabout

This example shows the traffic movement patterns through a one-lane roundabout. The one-lane roundabout is known as one of the safest and most efficient types of intersections.

• Slow down. Obey traffic signs.
• Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists.
• Vehicles entering must always yield to cars already in the roundabout. Look to your left for entering traffic.
• Enter the roundabout when there is a safe gap in traffic.
• Keep your speed low within the roundabout.
• As you approach your exit, turn on your right turn signal.
• Yield to pedestrians and bicycles as you exit.

Lesson two – emergency vehicles in the roundabout

• Always yield to emergency vehicles.
• If you have not entered the roundabout, pull over and allow emergency vehicles to pass.
• If you have entered the roundabout, then pull over when you can safely do so and allow emergency vehicles to pass.

Lesson three – driving a roundabout with two or more lanes

• Choose the proper lane before entering: As you get closer to the roundabout entrance, it is very important to observe the signs and arrows to determine which lane to use before entering a roundabout.
• Signs on the side of the road and white arrows on the road will show the correct lane to use.
• In general, if you want to make a left turn, you should be in the left lane or other lanes that are signed and marked as left turn lanes.
• If you want to make a right turn, you should be in the right lane or other lanes that are signed and marked as right turn lanes.
• If you want to go straight, observe the signs and arrows to see what lane is correct.