Tips for Driving Through a Roundabout Safely

If you are like many Americans, you may be nervous when you approach a roundabout. However, they are used widely in Europe and studies have found that they are safer than traditional intersections. When used properly, they can prevent T-bone accidents and other fatal crashes. Here, we share tips on how to navigate a roundabout safely.

Guidelines to Follow When Driving Through a Roundabout

Roundabouts are medium-sized traffic circles which are entered into on a gentle curve and can be used in a variety of intersections. They can be a single-lane roundabout or a multi-lane one. Here are some general safety tips that you should follow:

• Know when to yield. When approaching a roundabout, you need to yield to any pedestrians and vehicles already in the roundabout. Once it is safe, you can proceed into the roundabout. You must yield to any pedestrians when you get ready to exit the roundabout.
• Don’t stop. Roundabouts are designed to be driven at a slow, steady speed. Drive at the posted speed limit but do not stop. If you see an emergency vehicle, you should proceed to your exit and pull over.
• Pick a lane. In a multi-lane roundabout, you want to pick your lane before entering the roundabout and stay in it. Follow the signs and get into the lane marked for the exit you want to take. You should not change lanes once you are in the roundabout.
• Stay off the center island. It can be more challenging for a larger vehicle like a truck to navigate a roundabout. A raised center island can often be found in a roundabout to help a trucker get the truck’s back wheels around the curve. If you are driving a passenger vehicle, you do not need to use the center island.

While roundabouts are safer than traditional intersections, this does not mean that they are accident-free. If a negligent driver causes you to suffer injuries in a roundabout, you need to file a claim with his insurance company. Call our office today to schedule a free confidential case evaluation with our experienced car accident attorneys to learn how we can help to build a strong claim for compensation and negotiate your settlement.