One of the most important rules of a roundabout is the “yield-at-entry” rule. Vehicles that are inside and circulating through the roundabout always have the right of way. Motorists or bicyclists who want to enter the roundabout must yield to all lanes and wait for a safe gap in circulating traffic to enter the roundabout. In some instances, this means motorists must stop at the yield sign until a safe gap is present.

1. Slow Down: Roundabouts are designed to reduce your speed upon entry. While it may seem counter-intuitive, slowing down in a roundabout alleviates congestion. Slower speeds also make roundabouts safer than traditional intersections.

2. Yield, Don’t Merge: Vehicles traveling in the roundabout have the right-of-way. Do not merge into a roundabout like you merge onto a highway. Slow down and yield, or sometimes stop, for traffic that is circulating the roundabout. Enter the roundabout when a safe gap is present.

3. Do Not Switch Lanes: It is important to choose your lane prior to entering the roundabout. All multi-lane roundabouts have signs that indicate which lane you should be in to reach your destination. Look for signage as you approach and avoid changing lanes while circulating.

Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Roundabouts

Step 1: Approaching a Multi-lane Roundabout

Look at signage as you enter. Multilane roundabouts will always have signs indicating which lane you should be in to turn onto an intersecting road or to continue forward.  Crash incidents are greatly reduced when drivers choose the correct lane before they enter the roundabout.

Choosing a lane is no different than approaching a signalized intersection. Depending on where you want to go, multi-lane roundabouts typically follow this pattern:

• For right-hand turns: Maneuver to the right-hand lane and use your turn signal.
• For left-hand turns: Maneuver to the left-hand lane and use your turn signal.
• For continuing straight: Look for signage to determine which lane(s) you should be in.
• If you miss your exit: Circle the roundabout again.

Step 2: Entering a Roundabout

Always yield and look left before entering the roundabout. Wait for a safe gap in traffic to enter the roundabout. You should never merge into a roundabout like you merge onto a highway. Vehicles already inside the roundabout always have the right of way. The same principle applies to pedestrians crossing the roadway.

Step 3: Circulating in a Roundabout

Avoid changing lanes while circulating. You should enter the roundabout in the correct lane before entering the roundabout. Only stop while inside a roundabout to avoid a collision. If you are already inside the roundabout, you have the right of way.

Step 4: Exiting a Roundabout

Use your RIGHT turn signal/indicator when exiting the roundabout. As you exit, be aware of pedestrians that may be crossing the roadway.