Roundabout Driver Education

All motorists have encountered and are familiar with standard intersections controlled by yield signs, stop signs or traffic signals. When approaching, the motorist instantly knows from the signing or traffic signal whether to stop before proceeding. If stopped, pedestrians may cross the street in front of the vehicle and vehicles on the cross street proceed. Once able to proceed through the intersection, the motorists may go directly left, straight, right, or, in some cases, perform a U-turn.

If an intersection is uncontrolled (no stop signs or signal), a yield-to-the-right rule is generally followed giving priority to the vehicle on your right.

A roundabout requires a different technique to properly drive. Since this is a change from standard intersections, many motorists experience some degree of anxiety during their first few encounters with roundabouts. However, the steps to correctly maneuver through a roundabout are easy to master and are presented step by step below.

Understanding the basic features of a roundabout

Standard two-lane roundabout and key terms

Center Island

Circulatory Roadway/Circulating Lanes

Splitter Island

Yield Line

How do trucks use a roundabout?

Does traffic approaching from one direction have priority over traffic approaching from another direction?

I learned the rule as: Yield to the Right. Is that correct?

Is the roundabout like a four-way stop?

Should I use my turn signal?

Do I get a turn to go?

Do I have to stop at the YIELD signs?

How large of a gap do I need?

Is it OK to let someone in?

I know the rule is do not stop inside the roundabout. What should I do when someone else stops inside the roundabout?

What do I do when the driver in front of me is too timid at the yield line?

While I'm waiting for my turn at the yield line I'm not sure what to do about the pedestrian crosswalks?

What can we do about people who do not yield or speed?

The roundabouts are nicely landscaped. Are there any special rules for using a roundabout during maintenance activities?

Can I change lanes in the roundabout?

Can I cross to the center island?

I sometimes get trapped in the inside lane. What should I do?

I drive a big truck and that roundabout looks awfully tight. Will I fit?

I'm driving in a multi-lane roundabout. How do I choose which lane to enter and exit?

What should I do when I'm in a roundabout when an emergency vehicle arrives?