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Many states and communities are using roundabouts as safer, more efficient alternatives to intersections with stop signs or signals. A roundabout is a lowspeed intersection in which traffic flows continuously around a circular central island. Studies show that roundabouts significantly reduce crashes and crash-related injuries, as well as decrease traffic congestion. But they can be confusing to a novice. These tips will help you to more easily navigate your next roundabout.
Slow Down
When approaching a roundabout, slow down and get your bearings. Know where you want to exit the roundabout before you enter. Watch for any warning signs and obey the posted speed limit. Roundabouts ease traffic congestion because drivers are not required to come to a complete stop. However, drivers entering the roundabout must yield the right of way to those already in the circle.
Choose Your Lane
Some roundabouts contain only a single lane, while busier ones may have two or more lanes. As you approach a two-lane roundabout, look for signs or road markings indicating which lane you should be in. To make a left turn or a U-turn, be in the left lane or other lanes marked as left turn lanes. To make a right turn, be in the right lane or other lanes marked as right turn lanes. To go straight, observe the signs and markings and choose the lane that shows a through movement.
Yield Before Entering
Traffic flows counterclockwise in a roundabout. So regardless of where you enter the intersection, traffic should be approaching from your left. Remember to yield the right of way and then enter the roundabout when there is a safe gap. If there is no approaching traffic, you are not required to stop before entering.
Keep Moving
Once you're in the roundabout, stop only to avoid a collision and be sure to use your turn signals to let other drivers know when you're exiting the roundabout.
Take Care
Keep an eye out for pedestrians and bicyclists navigating the intersection. And take greater care when approaching a roundabout in the winter. Accumulations of snow and ice make the center island harder to see and the circular path trickier to travel.
Learning Center Forum Topic
What's your experience with roundabouts?
- 3 Comments
- Holly Anderson, Editor in Chief on Sep 23, 2011 2:24 PM
Hi Shopper, Although traffic circles and roundabouts use a circular design, they are different. Traffic circles are large and intended for high-speed vehicle operation. Roundabouts are small and intended for traffic driving 15 mph to 25 mph. Before you enter a roundabout intersection, or any intersection for that matter, know where you want to be after you leave that intersection. Know which direction you want to be headed, or which street you want to be on. This will make it easier for you to get through the roundabout. For helpful information about roundabouts visit: http://teendriving.statefarm.com/learning-to-drive/driving-with-a-permit/roundabouts
- shopper on Sep 13, 2011 11:30 AM
This is my question also. Lived on a farm for a decade and want to be able to negotiate a "turnabout" if I drive to a city. What IS the difference between a turnabout and a traffic circle?
- cap1joe on Aug 15, 2011 3:33 PM
What is not clear to me is what is the difference between a traffic circle and a roundabout. Your article would be more helpful if you contrasted the two. Perhaps some drawings would help.
Thank you.
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Comments come from the public: We do not verify all information shared by those commenting. Except for messages posted by Authorized State Farm Contributors, the comments, opinions, and statements made by public contributors do not necessarily reflect the views, policies or practices of State Farm and are the responsibility of those individuals who created the information.
