No matter how long you’ve been driving, some roundabouts can be tricky. It’s crucial to be in the correct lane and signal properly to avoid accidents.
Roundabouts often cause disputes between drivers who think others are in the wrong lane. But who’s right? According to the Highway Code, if you’re taking the first exit to the left, signal left and stay in the left-hand lane unless signs say otherwise.
If you’re going right or full circle, signal right and stay in the right-hand lane until you need to exit. However, going straight on at a roundabout can be confusing. Many believe you should be in the right-hand lane, but the Highway Code says otherwise.
Unless signs or markings say otherwise, you should pick the left lane when approaching a roundabout. You usually don’t need to signal until you’re ready to leave the roundabout.
The code says that if there are more than three lanes at the entrance to a roundabout, you should use the most suitable one. In other words, use your common sense.
For mini roundabouts, treat them like normal ones. All cars must go around the central markings unless they’re too big. Avoid making U-turns at mini-roundabouts.
The Highway Code also says: “When reaching the roundabout you should give priority to traffic approaching from your right, unless directed otherwise by signs, road markings or traffic lights, check whether road markings allow you to enter the roundabout without giving way.
“If so, proceed, but still look to the right before joining, watch out for all other road users already on the roundabout; be aware they may not be signalling correctly, or at all, and look forward before moving off to make sure traffic in front has moved off.
“You should give priority to cyclists on the roundabout. They will be travelling more slowly than motorised traffic. Give them plenty of room and do not attempt to overtake them within their lane. Allow them to move across your path as they travel around the roundabout.
“Cyclists, horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles may stay in the left-hand lane when they intend to continue across or around the roundabout and should signal right to show you they are not leaving the roundabout.
“Drivers should take extra care when entering a roundabout to ensure that they do not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse-drawn vehicles in the left-hand lane, who are continuing around the roundabout.”
