To use a 4-exit roundabout, approach in the right-hand lane, signal right, give way to traffic, enter keeping to the right side, pass the first three exits, then signal left after the third exit to take your intended fourth exit, checking your mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and exiting safely.
Here are the top 10 mistakes you should avoid on roundabouts:
The golden rule
You approach the roundabout from the 6 o'clock position, entering the roundabout by turning left so that you go around in a clockwise direction, while at the same time, giving way to traffic coming from your right, who are already on the roundabout.
The four essential rules for roundabouts are: Slow Down, Give Way to traffic already inside (including pedestrians/cyclists), Use the Correct Lane (left for left/straight, right for right/U-turn, following signs), and Signal your intention to exit by indicating left just before your exit, as noted by Transport Victoria, NSW Government, and RAC WA.
Correct roundabout procedure
If you're the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection, you have the right of way and can continue through the intersection before other traffic. If you arrive at the intersection at the same time as another automobile, the vehicle to the right goes first.
1. Failing to give way to traffic already on the roundabout. Drivers must give priority to vehicles coming from the right. 2. Incorrect lane positioning and selection when approaching and on the roundabout.
If the exit is positioned before '12 o'clock' on the roundabout sign, you'll need the left-hand lane. This is usually for turning left or going straight on — but not always. If the exit is positioned after '12 o'clock' on the roundabout sign, you'll need the right-hand lane.
Yes. Especially when exiting the roundabout. This allows vehicles waiting to enter the roundabout to know your intentions.
For single-lane roundabouts, you should always approach at the posted speed limit. However, for multi-lane roundabouts, you may need to adjust your speed depending on which lane you are in. If you are in the innermost lane, you will need to exit the roundabout at the first opportunity.
If you are turning left or going ahead, then you will need to use the left-hand lane, unless road markings or signs tell you otherwise. Use the right-hand lane for turning right. Sometimes you can use the right-hand lane to overtake and go ahead. You must make sure there are 2 lanes coming off the roundabout, though.
If going straight
If you're going straight at an uncontrolled 4-way intersection, you must give way to: vehicles on your right that are going straight ahead. vehicles on your right turning right.
The Basic Rules for 4-Way Stops
If you're the first to stop, you get to go first, provided it's safe to do so. Right-of-Way for Drivers on the Right: If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver to the right has the right of way. This principle is key to avoiding confusion and ensuring smooth traffic flow.
4-Way Intersections
If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle who is approaching from your right and they appear to be travelling straight ahead, give way to your right.
Hesitation. If you're unsure when to pull out of a junction, or at a roundabout, you won't fail for not going at the first viable opportunity. Try to keep your cool and pull out the next time it's safe to do so. You won't get a minor for holding up the flow of traffic if you miss the chance once, or even twice.
The easiest way to remember which lane you need to be in on a roundabout, is to think of the roundabout. As a clock. We split the roundabout down the middle. If the exit you require is 12 o'clock or before you need the left hand lane.
Roundabouts manage the traffic flow at intersections. They move traffic in one direction around a central island. Vehicles can turn left or right, go straight ahead, or make a full turn (U-turn). When you approach a roundabout, you must slow down or stop to give way to all vehicles already in the roundabout.
In Australia, when approaching a roundabout, slow down, give way to vehicles already in the roundabout (especially those from the right), select the correct lane based on your exit, indicate your intentions, and follow road arrows, signaling left as you exit. Always yield to traffic already circulating, use indicators for turns (left for straight/left, right for right/U-turn, then left to exit), and obey lane arrows on multi-lane roundabouts.