Many states are adding more roundabouts in an effort to improve both traffic flow and safety. But for drivers unfamiliar with roundabouts, these alternatives to the traditional intersection may seem a bit confusing.

Here are some safety tips, provided by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, on driving in a roundabout:

  • Slow down as you approach the roundabout.
  • For multi-lane roundabouts, as with any intersection, get into
the appropriate lane as you approach the roundabout.
  • Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists crossing the roadway.
  • Watch for signs or pavement markings that require or prohibit
certain movements.
  • When entering a roundabout, yield to vehicles already in the roundabout. Do not cross into the roundabout until all traffic from the left has cleared.
  • After entering the roundabout, drive in a counter-clockwise direction until you reach your exit.
  • Do not stop, pass or change lanes within a roundabout.
  • If an emergency vehicle approaches, exit the roundabout immediately and then pull over.

For more advice on driving through a roundabout, click here to view a video from the Michigan Department of Transportation.

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