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 Isn't a roundabout just another form of intersection?
 Absolutely. And, just like stop signs and stoplights it is important for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to learn the rules for roundabouts.
Do I have to be in the left lane to turn left?
Yes, See Animation 2. When you are at the roundabout look for the lane signs and the directional arrows on the pavement. Like many other intersections, the lane assignments are specific to the direction you are going.
How do pedestrians use a roundabout?
See Animation 3. Remember if you are a driver to observe all the pedestrian crossing locations because pedestrians always have the right-of-way when they are in the crosswalks. Also, do not stop in the crosswalks while you are waiting for your turn at the yield line. If you are a pedestrian, be sure to use the crosswalks and make sure the drivers see you before you enter the crosswalk.
How do trucks use a roundabout?
See Animation 4. There are two things you should know about trucks. First, very large trucks can pass through roundabouts. Large trucks will need both lanes to make wide turns, and they can use the truck aprons (concrete area on the outside of the central islands) for additional space. Second, other drivers need to give trucks plenty of room. You should expect trucks to use both lanes; so do not get beside a truck in a roundabout--they may not be able to see you.
How do bicycles use a roundabout?
Bicyclists have a legal right to ride on the street with the traffic just like other intersections, but we urge all riders to use the paths and crosswalks. Statistics show roundabouts are safer for almost everyone. Unfortunately, bike riders riding in traffic do not share those benefits and may actually have a higher accident rate than on-street bikers at other types of intersections. Be smart. Use the paths.
ABOUT YIELDING TO TOP
Does traffic approaching from one direction have priority over traffic approaching from another direction?
The only priority rule is that drivers inside the roundabout have the right-of-way over any driver entering the roundabout, regardless of approach direction. Every entrance has a yield sign for vehicles that wish to enter.
I learned the rule as: “Yield to the Right.” Is that correct?
At roundabouts, the traffic circulates counter-clockwise, so it will be coming towards you from your left. Yield at the entry to circulating traffic. In practice, that means yield to your left, as you do when entering a freeway or turning right at a red traffic light.
Is the roundabout like a 4-way stop?
Not really. The main similarity is that both roundabouts and 4-way stop intersections do not have signals. The differences include: 4-way stops yield to the right, roundabouts yield to the left --like a right turn on red-- because the circulating traffic comes from that direction. At 4-way stops, each direction gets a turn in order. At roundabouts, each driver chooses a safe gap to enter and no driver “gets a turn.”
Do I get a turn to go?
Roundabouts are not like 4-way stops. You do not get a turn to go. You may only enter the roundabout when there is a safe gap in the traffic flow.
Do I have to stop at the YIELD signs?
It depends on the amount of traffic already in the roundabout. When there is a lot of traffic, you will probably have to stop. Otherwise, when you have a safe gap, you are not required to stop. However, you should always slow down enough so you can stop if necessary.
How large of a gap do I need?
You will have to use your own judgment based on the vehicle you are driving, the weather conditions, and traffic flow around you, It is always your responsibility to select a safe gap before you cross your yield line.
I know the rule is “do not stop inside the roundabout.” What should I do when someone else stops inside the roundabout?
Be patient. Wait for them and make sure they go first. If you go in front of a driver that stops you will add to that driver’s confusion, and they will keep making the same mistakes. So, it is in everyone’s best interest if we wait for those drivers. Soon they will gain enough confidence so they will not to stop inside the roundabout any more.
What do I do when the driver in front of me is too timid at the yield line?
Be patient and wait for them to choose their safe gap or change lanes and go around them. Try to avoid honking your horn because it tends to cause timid drivers to make mistakes.
What can we do about people who do not yield?
First, practice defensive driving like you would at any other intersection. Second, be sure to follow all the yield rules yourself, because other drivers will learn by watching you. Don't let a driver who stops convince you to enter in front of them. If we all provide the right example by following the yield-at-entry rule, the other drivers will eventually learn. Finally, if you become aware that more enforcement is needed, contact the police department and let them know about your concerns.
ABOUT SPEED TO TOP
What is the right speed to drive through the roundabouts?
In dry conditions, you should drive 15-20 MPH. Remember to drive smoothly because other drivers need to accurately judge your speed to choose safe gaps.
Do I really need to slow down below 15 MPH when it is icy?
Absolutely. When it is icy, you will need to go slow enough to be able to stop at the yield line and to control your vehicle through the turns.
What can we do about people who speed?
Roundabouts are designed to keep speeds low. However, some drivers will attempt to speed. So, like any other intersection, you should practice defensive driving. Other drivers can learn by your example, so be sure to drive at a safe speed yourself and drive smoothly so other drivers can easily judge your speed. Finally, if you become aware that more enforcement is needed, contact the police department and let them know about your concerns.
Can I change lanes in the roundabout?
You should not change lanes once you cross the yield line and are in the circle. If you need to change lanes, do so before you get to the yield line.
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