10 February 2024 , 10:12
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Drivers would say they're pretty confident when it comes to knowing the rules of the road - but many are only just realising they've been using roundabouts wrong.
When learning to drive, we all remember the sheer panic that would go through our bodies when we noticed a roundabout coming up, but after lots of practice, they become a doddle.
They can be one of the most common places to get beeped at. With all of the lanes and making sure you're in the right one, getting off at the right exit and waiting for the right time to pull out, we've all been there when it's not quite going to plan and the anxiety it can bring. But people are only just realising the 'correct' way to use a roundabout.
Many people will know that according to the Highway Code, when taking the first exit to the left, it states that unless some signs or markings indicate otherwise, you should signal left and approach in the left-hand lane, keep to the left on the roundabout and continue signalling left to leave and the same when taking an exit to the right - keep to the right until you need to change lanes.
However, it can get a little confusing when you're driving 'straight through' or known as an "intermediate exit" - if the exit is positioned at 12 o'clock when you approach the roundabout. So which lane do you need to be in? Many people think you should be in the right-hand lane - but it's wrong.
'I don't want children staying up late at weekends - I really need adult time'
The proper way, according to the Highway Code that when taking this exit, you should "select the appropriate lane on approach to the roundabout, you should not normally need to signal on approach, you should stay in this lane until you need to alter course to exit the roundabout, and you should signal left after you have passed the exit before the one you want."
The code states that when there are more than three lanes at the entrance to a roundabout, you should use the most appropriate lane on approach and through it - or in other words - use some common sense.
The Highway Code adds: "When reaching the roundabout you should give priority to traffic approaching from your right, unless directed otherwise by signs, road markings or traffic lights, check whether road markings allow you to enter the roundabout without giving way. If so, proceed, but still look to the right before joining, watch out for all other road users already on the roundabout; be aware they may not be signalling correctly or at all and look forward before moving off to make sure traffic in front has moved off.
"You should give priority to cyclists on the roundabout. They will be travelling more slowly than motorised traffic. Give them plenty of room and do not attempt to overtake them within their lane. Allow them to move across your path as they travel around the roundabout."