How to deal with roundabouts

In this episode of the Masterclass Series - we're giving you some driving tips on how to deal with roundabouts!


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By Megan

Updated on Dec 21st, 2020

How to deal with roundabouts

Roundabouts are designed to help traffic flow keep moving, without necessarily having to stop. They can be tricky, and strike fear into many learners and inexperienced driver. That's why in this episode of the Driving Instructor Masterclass, we're looking at the roundabout rules in the UK, and giving you tips on how to drive on a roundabout. There's really nothing to worry about - master the skills you need to deal with a variety of roundabouts and when they come up on your test - you'll be fine! 

Driving test tips - roundabout!

If you are feeling nervous about roundabouts, remember your driving instructor is there to help in the lead up to your test and to help you prepare for your facing roundabouts on your test. Speed and control is key. It's also worth noting that on your test it's more likely to come up against a roundabout toward the end, so mastering the skills needed means you won't have to worry about it for the duration of the test If you take a wrong direction on your test, the examiner will help you get back on track and as long as you were safe there is no fault committed. Going the wrong way but doing it right won't fail you!

Approaching the roundabout

As you approach a roundabout the more time you have to plan, the easier it is to feel in control. Keep your eyes peeled for everything that is happening around you, and look for clues such as roundabout signs to determine when you’re approaching a roundabout. All roundabouts are different, so you need to drive accordingly. Check the traffic signs and lane markings to know that you’re in the correct lane. Your satnav may even tell you which lane to be in! Make sure you keep using the Mirror Signal Manoeuvre (Look, Tell, Do) routine throughout and adjust your position and speed accordingly. If you can’t see what is coming from the right, treat the roundabout like a closed junction and prepared to stop. Keep checking your mirrors for other cars, motorcycles, cycles and pedestrians.

Turning left – first exit

Keep in the left-hand lane and use your signals to let other road users know your intentions. When pulling out on the roundabout, give way to the right. Then, when making your turn off – use the rearview mirror and passenger door mirror to check there is no one to the left of you. Don’t forget to look at the road you’re turning on to before you go, that needs to be clear too! If you’re clear – you’re good to turn! Mirror, signal, manoeuvre.

Straight over – second exit

Knowing which lane to be in when going straight over can be tricky, so make sure you check the signs and road markings carefully. If the road isn’t marked – it’s usually best to keep in the left lane. Keep in this lane until you need to exit the roundabout. Then, check your rearview mirror and your passenger door mirror - signal left once you’ve passed the previous exit, and if it’s clear – you’re good to go. Mirror, signal, manoeuvre.

Turning right – third exit

Keep in the right-hand lane when approaching the roundabout and stay there until you need to exit. Keep in this lane until you need to exit the roundabout and signal left once you’ve passed the previous exit. Again, check your rearview mirror and passenger door mirror before exiting the roundabout. If it is not safe to leave the roundabout here, you may have to go around it again. Mirror, signal, manoeuvre.

Mini-roundabouts

You don’t have to do anything differently on a mini roundabout than you would normally. The only difference is, you won’t need an exit signal when leaving (because they’re small, there’s no time for the second signal). So if you’re turning left – signal left. If you’re turning right – signal right. If you’re going straight over you don’t need to signal at all – your lane position should tell other road users your intentions. Simple, right?

Who has the right of way in a roundabout?

When driving on a roundabout, you always give way to drivers coming from your right. This is the basic roundabout rule in the UK and it's what keeps everyone safe on when using roundabouts as well as keeping traffic moving. 

Of course, not all roundabouts are the same (we wish), so treat this as a rule of thumb. You may need to change your lane and position depending on the roundabout you’re driving on.

Practice makes Perfect

Short term learner insurance allows you to practise in a parent's or friend's car and gain more confidence with roundabouts
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By Megan

Hi, I'm Megan - I have recently graduated from university and I'm a marketing executive at Marmalade! I am a new driver myself and would love to share my tips, tricks and experiences with you :)


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