Roundabouts were once thought of as only a European traffic tool, but they've made a comeback across North America and worldwide. They're designed to control the flow of traffic, making difficult intersections safer for drivers — if you know how to navigate them.
Single vs. Multi-Lane Roundabouts
In a single-lane roundabout, yield to oncoming traffic, enter slowly when a gap appears, obey the posted speed limit, and signal as you approach your exit. In a multi-lane roundabout, stay right if making a right turn or going straight. Move to the left lane if traveling more than 180 degrees around the circle. Always yield to all lanes of traffic when entering, and watch for pedestrian crosswalks within the roundabout.
Oversize Vehicles and Safety
The bigger the vehicle, the more challenging a roundabout becomes. Buses, RVs, and transport trucks make wider turns and have larger blind spots — avoid driving beside them in the roundabout. Compared to traditional intersections, roundabouts are statistically safer. There's no direct route through without slowing and turning, and drivers enter using a right turn rather than a riskier left turn that crosses traffic.
Never Stop — Just Keep Going
One of the most common mistakes is stopping in a roundabout because you missed your exit. Never stop your vehicle inside a roundabout. If you miss your turn, stay in your lane and keep driving — you're only one revolution away from that same exit. Park only outside the roundabout, a short distance from the exit.
Roundabouts are designed to improve safety and reduce delays. Know the rules, stay in your lane, and they become easy to navigate.
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