Before we delve into lanes and signals, one principle is paramount: Give way to traffic approaching from your right. Traffic already on the roundabout (coming from your right) has priority. You must wait for a safe gap before entering. This is the universal, non-negotiable foundation.
Part 1: A Step-by-Step Guide for Car Drivers
1. Approach: Observation, Lane Choice, and Signalling
Your success is determined long before you reach the roundabout.
- Read the Signs & Road Markings: Approach signs will indicate the location of exits. The road surface will have lane arrows (e.g., left lane for left turn, right lane for right turn). “Get in lane early” is the mantra.
- Choose Your Lane:
- Turning Left (1st Exit): Signal left on approach. Use the left-hand lane.
- Going Straight Ahead (2nd Exit or ’12 o’clock’): You may not need to signal on approach. Use the left-hand lane unless signs/markings indicate otherwise. For multi-lane straight-ons, the left lane is typically correct.
- Turning Right (3rd Exit or beyond): Signal right on approach. Use the right-hand lane (or any lane marked for your exit).
- Check Your Mirrors: Be acutely aware of cyclists and motorcycles who may be filtering or alongside you.
2. On the Roundabout: Flow and Positioning
- Maintain a Steady Speed: Don’t stop if the way is clear. Join the flow smoothly.
- Keep to Your Lane: Do not drift across lanes. Follow the lane markings through the roundabout.
- Signal to Exit: This is the most common mistake. As you pass the exit immediately before the one you want, signal left. This tells traffic waiting to enter and pedestrians that you are leaving the roundabout.
3. Exiting: The Final Check
- Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre: Check your left mirror for any cyclists who may be continuing around or passing you.
- Signal Off: Keep your left signal on until you have fully exited.
Part 2: The Cyclist’s Survival Guide to Roundabouts
For cyclists, roundabouts present a choice: act as a vehicle or as a pedestrian. Your choice depends on your skill, confidence, and the roundabout’s size and traffic.
Option A: Taking the Lane (The Vehicular Method)
This is the recommended method for confident cyclists on standard roundabouts. It establishes your position and rights clearly.
- Approach: Position yourself prominently in the centre of your chosen lane (left lane for left/straight, right lane for right turns). Do not hug the curb. This makes you visible and prevents drivers from attempting to squeeze past you in the same lane.
- Signal Clearly: Use clear hand signals for right turns or left exits, just as a car would.
- Claim Your Space: Once in the lane, maintain your position. You have as much right to be there as a car. Move at a steady, predictable pace.
- Exit: Signal left to exit and check your shoulder before moving to the left side of the exit road.
For comprehensive, cyclist-specific advice on road positioning and rights, the Cycling UK guide to roundabouts is an invaluable resource.
Option B: Using the Pavement/Cycle Paths (The Pedestrian Method)
On very large, busy, or complex roundabouts (like motorway-style junctions), it is often safer to use dedicated cycle paths or, if none exist and you feel unsafe, to dismount and use pedestrian crossings. The law allows you to cycle on pavements only if they are designated as shared-use (look for blue cycle signs).
Key Safety Tip for All Cyclists: Wear high-visibility clothing and use good lights. Assume drivers have not seen you. Make eye contact where possible.
Part 3: Navigating Complex & Multi-Lane Roundabouts
The principles remain the same, but complexity increases.
- Spiral Roundabouts: Lane markings “spiral” you towards your exit. Follow the markings meticulously—they often mean you change lanes within the roundabout itself, but with the flow. Signal to exit as normal.
- Multiple Lanes: The golden rule is “right lane for right, left lane for left, and either for straight over” is too simplistic. You MUST obey the lane arrows on the approach. A left lane may be for “left only,” while the next lane may be for “straight and right.” Misreading these is a major cause of collisions.
- Mini-Roundabouts: Treat them exactly the same as full-sized ones. Give way to the right. You must go around the central marking (it’s a solid white circle); do not drive over it. Signal as normal.
For the absolute definitive rules, always refer to the official Highway Code, specifically Rules 184-190.
Building Confidence: Practice Makes Perfect
- Observe as a Passenger: Watch how the driver handles lane choice and signalling.
- Quiet Times: Practice on a quiet, local roundabout early on a Sunday morning.
- Professional Guidance: A refresher lesson with a qualified DVSA-approved driving instructor can work wonders for ironing out bad habits and building roundabout-specific confidence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- The “No-Signal” Exit: Failing to signal left when leaving is the top offence and causes confusion and delays.
- The Last-Minute Lane Change: Indecision on approach leads to dangerous swerving. Commit to your lane.
- Overshooting Lane Positioning: Drifting out of your lane mid-roundabout.
- Forgetting Lifesaver Checks: The final blind-spot check (for cyclists when exiting, for drivers checking for cyclists) is crucial.
- Cyclists Hugging the Curb: This invites dangerous close passes. Taking the lane is often safer.
Conclusion: Confidence is a Choice
Navigating UK roundabouts confidently boils down to knowledge, preparation, and clear communication. By understanding the priority rule, mastering your lane discipline, and using your signals correctly and consistently, you transform the roundabout from a puzzle into a smooth, predictable process.
Remember, whether you’re on two wheels or four, the goal is the same: to travel safely and predictably. Your signals are your voice on the road—use them. Your lane position is your intention—make it clear. By applying the rules in this guide, you’ll not only keep yourself safe but also contribute to a smoother, less stressful road environment for everyone.
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