Roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents, but they can be confusing for new or inexperienced drivers. Knowing how to navigate them correctly is essential for safe and efficient driving. In this blog, we'll cover the key rules, tips, and common mistakes to avoid when driving through roundabouts.
Quick Summary Box
TL;DR: Roundabouts require proper lane discipline, signaling, and yielding to avoid accidents. Follow these steps for safe navigation.
- Time Required: A few seconds per roundabout.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (requires awareness and practice).
- What You'll Need: Knowledge of right-of-way rules, proper signaling, and lane positioning.
Why Roundabout Safety Matters
- Reduces Collisions: Proper roundabout use minimizes high-speed crashes.
- Improves Traffic Flow: Keeps traffic moving smoothly.
- Prevents Confusion: Clear rules help all drivers navigate safely.
- Essential for Driving Tests: NSW driving examiners assess roundabout skills.
Key Rules for Navigating Roundabouts
1. Approach with Caution
- Slow down as you approach.
- Check signs and road markings to determine the correct lane.
- Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout (they have the right of way).
2. Choose the Correct Lane
- Turning left (1st exit)? Use the left lane.
- Going straight (2nd exit)? Use either lane (unless signs say otherwise).
- Turning right (3rd exit or U-turn)? Use the right lane.
3. Signal Properly
- Entering: No signal needed until you exit.
- Exiting: Always indicate left before your exit.
- Changing lanes inside a roundabout? Signal right, then left when exiting (rare, but sometimes necessary in multi-lane roundabouts).
4. Maintain Safe Speed & Positioning
- Keep a steady, slow speed (typically 20-30 km/h).
- Stay in your lane—do not drift into another lane.
- Watch for pedestrians and cyclists at crossings.
5. Exit Smoothly
- Check mirrors and blind spots before exiting.
- Signal left in advance to let others know you're leaving.
Common Roundabout Mistakes to Avoid
- Not yielding to circulating traffic (causes crashes).
- Changing lanes mid-roundabout (confuses other drivers).
- Forgetting to signal when exiting (leads to uncertainty).
- Stopping unnecessarily inside the roundabout (disrupts flow).
- Driving too fast (reduces reaction time).
How Roundabout Skills Help in the NSW Driving Test
Examiners assess your ability to:
- Approach at a safe speed.
- Yield correctly to existing traffic.
- Use proper lane discipline.
- Signal before exiting.
- Check mirrors and blind spots.
Mastering roundabouts will improve your chances of passing the NSW driving test!
FAQs
1. Who has right of way in a roundabout?
→ Vehicles already inside the roundabout have priority.
2. Do I need to signal when entering?
→ No, only signal left when exiting.
3. Can I stop inside a roundabout?
→ Only if necessary for safety (e.g., emergency vehicle). Otherwise, keep moving.
4. What if I miss my exit?
→ Continue around and exit correctly—never reverse or stop abruptly.
Final Call to Action
Roundabouts don't have to be stressful! With practice and the right techniques, you can navigate them confidently. If you're preparing for the NSW driving test, Right Choice Driving School can help you master roundabouts and other essential skills.