The presence of traffic roundabouts has changed the way we drive. In the past, some locations in the world didn't recognize roundabouts, but nowadays more and more roundabouts are being created because they can reduce congestion, require lower operating costs, can reduce accident rates by half, and use less energy than traditional light-controlled intersections. traffic. Learn how to drive through a roundabout by starting from Step 1 below.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Passing the Roundabout in Single Lane
Step 1. Reduce the speed of your vehicle as it approaches the roundabout
At this point you should see a "Roundabout ahead" sign followed by a "Give way" sign. The recommended speed is generally 24-32 km/h.
Step 2. Look to the right before entering the roundabout lane, wait and make way for oncoming vehicles
Vehicles already in the roundabout lane are the most entitled to use the lane. Do not move in unless there is a safe distance. If there are no vehicles around the roundabout, you can enter immediately without waiting.
Pedestrian crossings (zebra crosses) are usually located at a distance of about one or two cars from the roundabout lane. Give way to pedestrians who are or will use pedestrian crossings
Step 3. When there is a safe distance between vehicular traffic passing through the roundabout, move inside
Keep your vehicle speed low as you pass the roundabout and continue until you are out of the roundabout lane.
Step 4. Turn on the turn signal when you want to exit the roundabout lane
This will let other drivers know that you are about to get out of the roundabout, so they don't get confused by your maneuver.
Step 5. Only give way to pedestrians using pedestrian crossings or emergency vehicles (eg ambulances) when you exit the roundabout
Remember that the most entitled is the driver who was originally in the roundabout lane. If no pedestrians are crossing or emergency vehicles are entering or exiting the roundabout lane, continue exiting the roundabout without stopping or slowing down your vehicle.
If an emergency vehicle is about to enter a roundabout lane or is already in it, don't stop or pull over in the middle of the roundabout. Continue until you get out of the roundabout lane according to your destination, then please pull over.
Method 2 of 2: Passing the Roundabout with Double Lane
Step 1. Remember to give way to all traffic lanes at the double lane roundabout
When you will pass the roundabout, of course you will be in the left lane and ready to enter the roundabout lane. If at that moment you notice that a vehicle is moving in the right lane, wait for it to pass before you enter the roundabout. Even if it seems impossible, the vehicle could suddenly cut into your lane as you enter a roundabout and cause an accident.
Step 2. Choose the lane you want to use based on which way you want to exit
At a double lane roundabout, which usually has three or more exits, the lane you should choose is determined by which direction you're turning:
- use right lane if you are going to the exit that is on the right, round the roundabout to make a U-turn, or head to the exit that goes straight ahead of the entrance.
- use left lane if you're only going to briefly enter a roundabout lane and exit straight away, or head for an exit that's straight ahead of the entrance.
- Pay attention to the signs that set the direction in which each lane is headed. These signs are usually placed above or at the side of the road, or in the form of arrows painted on the road surface.
Step 3. Do not try to overtake or parallel drive a large vehicle such as a truck at a double lane roundabout
Large trucks have a larger turning radius, making them one of the most dangerous vehicles in roundabout lanes. Always allow more space for such vehicles to circle roundabouts or turn, by staying behind them while giving extra distance than when you are driving behind a small vehicle.
Step 4. Stay in your lane
Do not change lanes while crossing a double lane roundabout.
Things to Consider When Driving Through a Roundabout
Step 1. Never stop while in a roundabout lane
Roundabouts, like intersections, are places where traffic moves constantly. Stopping a vehicle while on a roundabout will cause congestion and increase the chance of an accident.
Step 2. Get past the roundabout on a bicycle
If you're riding a bicycle and you're about to pass a roundabout, you have two options:
- Enter the roundabout lane as if you were driving a motor vehicle. Stay in the center of your chosen lane so that it is clearly visible and not cut off by other vehicles.
- If you feel uncomfortable driving past the roundabout, get off the road and use the pedestrian crossing.
Step 3. Pass the roundabout on foot
If you must pass a roundabout on foot, follow these steps:
- Look to your right and cross at pedestrian crossings when there is a safe clear distance from passing traffic.
- Pause for a moment when you have reached the divider (divider).
- Look to the left and cross when there is a safe clearance.
Tips
- Rule of thumb: If you're already in a roundabout lane, it's you who has top priority using the lane.
- Sometimes a pedestrian crossing is provided at the end of the road that approaches the roundabout. If you are a pedestrian, always use this to cross or walk around a roundabout. Don't cross into the middle of the roundabout itself!
- You will probably find some kind of curb that protrudes slightly around the roundabout, and is usually colored in red. This is a truck apron, a special space reserved for the rear wheels of large trucks when turning around a roundabout. The truck apron is not intended for use by other, smaller vehicles.
