Author: Dan Ison | Category: Practical Skills
Roundabouts are often the most intimidating part of learning to drive, but they are designed to keep traffic moving safely. Whether you are navigating a mini-roundabout or a massive multi-lane junction, mastering them is essential for passing your driving test and becoming a confident road user.
Here is your professional guide to handling roundabouts with ease.
The key to roundabouts is preparation. Long before you reach the dashed line, you should apply the MSM routine:
Mirrors: Check your interior and door mirrors to see who is behind or beside you.
Signal: Indicate your direction early so others know where you are going.
Manoeuvre: Adjust your speed and position your car in the correct lane.
Choosing the right lane is where many drivers go wrong. As a general rule:
Turning Left (1st Exit): Approach in the left-hand lane and signal left.
Going Straight On: Usually, the left-hand lane is best (unless road markings say otherwise). Do not signal until you have passed the exit before the one you want.
Turning Right (3rd or 4th Exit): Approach in the right-hand lane and signal right.
One of the biggest mistakes is rushing the entry. Professionals approach roundabouts slowly enough to stop, but they are always looking for a gap so they can keep moving if it is safe.
Look Right: Traffic on the roundabout coming from your right has priority.
Find the Gap: Watch the wheels of the cars already on the roundabout; they will tell you where the car is going before the driver signals.
Exiting a roundabout safely is just as important as entering. Once you have passed the exit prior to your intended one, check your mirrors (especially your left-hand door mirror for cyclists) and signal left.
Pro Tip: If you realize you are in the wrong lane, stay in it. Follow that lane to wherever it leads safely. Swerving across lanes to "fix" a mistake is a guaranteed way to fail a driving test or cause an accident.
Modern roundabouts often use "spiral" markings that lead you naturally toward your exit.
Follow the Lines: Don't cross solid white lines.
Stay Focused: In heavy traffic, it’s easy to get distracted. Keep a safe following distance from the car in front in case they brake suddenly.
Speed: Slow down early to give yourself time to think.
Observation: Look right early and keep looking.
Signals: Always signal left when exiting.
Patience: If it’s not safe, wait. Never feel pressured by drivers behind you.
By following these professional driving techniques, you’ll turn a stressful junction into a smooth transition. Safe driving!