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Roundabouts allow traffic from different roads to merge or cross without necessarily stopping.
Before you enter a roundabout, you normally give way to any traffic approaching from your immediate right. However, you should keep moving if the way is clear.
In a few cases, traffic on the roundabout has to give way to traffic entering. Look out for ‘give way’ signs and road markings on the roundabout.
Some roundabouts have traffic lights (sometimes part-time) which determine priority.
Always use the MSM/PSL routine on approach.
Always look well ahead for the advance warning sign. At large or complex roundabouts, in particular, this will give you a clear picture of the layout of the roundabout, together with route directions.
The sign will enable you to select the most suitable lane in which to approach the roundabout.
Watch out also for advance warnings of appropriate traffic lanes at the roundabout. These are often backed up by road markings, which may include route numbers.
Where possible, it’s a good idea to look across the roundabout and identify the exit you want to take. This will help you to plan the safest course through the roundabout.
Adopt the following procedures unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise.
Where there are more than three lanes at the approach to the roundabout, use the most appropriate lane on approach and through the roundabout, unless road signs or markings tell you otherwise.
Always keep an eye on the vehicle in front as you’re about to enter the roundabout.
Don’t assume that the driver will keep going, as they may stop while you’re still looking to the right. Many rear-end collisions happen this way. Make sure the vehicle has actually moved away. Always check the vehicle in front before moving off.
Roundabouts can be particularly hazardous areas. While negotiating the roundabout, you should be especially aware of
Approach these in the same way as a roundabout: slow down and be prepared to give way to traffic from the right. Remember, however, there’s less space to manoeuvre and less time to signal. For example, you may not have time to signal left when leaving. Also
vehicles coming towards you might want to turn right. Give way to them
Try to avoid using a mini-roundabout to make a U-turn, but be aware that other drivers may do this.
Spiral roundabouts differ from normal roundabouts in that the lanes spiral outwards from the centre of the roundabout and each lane has a designated exit. Road markings are used to keep vehicles in the correct lane, and to guide them towards the appropriate exit.
When you encounter a spiral roundabout
If you need to change lanes, make sure you check it’s safe before you do so and signal if necessary.
On a spiral roundabout, following the lanes and road markings will lead you to the appropriate exit.
At some complex junctions, a large roundabout can incorporate a series of mini-roundabouts at the intersections.
While each mini-roundabout follows the normal rules, with traffic travelling clockwise around them, traffic moving around the central roundabout travels in an anticlockwise direction. Lanes, signs and road markings give directions, but these are complicated intersections requiring care and concentration.
Keep a good lookout and assess the situation at each mini-roundabout. Look for direction signs well in advance.