Roundabouts

Roundabouts are, in fact, intersections. They have become more popular in recent years. Roundabouts actually negate the need for traffic signals. This particular type of intersection has a center island around which all traffic flows. There are exits at various points around the circle. You may have heard larger roundabouts referred to as rotaries.

Consider this when you drive in a roundabout:

• Always approach roundabouts at 15 to 25 mph unless
  the speed limit is otherwise posted.
• The center island should always be at your left.
• Yield to traffic that is already in the roundabout.
• Watch for signs indicating your exit and plan ahead.
• If you miss your exit, do not try any last minute moves.
  Proceed around the circle again and take the exit on your next pass.
• Cyclists and pedestrians should follow their own traffic rules when in roundabouts. They won’t always do that. Inside a roundabout, yield to bicycles and pedestrians.
• If a responding emergency vehicle approaches a roundabout, try to pull to the far right of the road. If this is not possible, leave the roundabout at the first exit and pull over. Return to your original route after the emergency vehicle has passed.