Roundabouts are designed to help reduce traffic congestion while maximizing safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. Because they require vehicles to slow down, studies show that roundabouts have been proven to reduce accidents by 35% and serious or fatal collisions by as much as 80%.

Yet even for the best commercial driver, roundabouts can be challenging. Fleet drivers should be aware of the best practices for safely negotiating roundabouts. Experts offer the following advice:

Slow Down

Before entering a roundabout, slow your speed or even coast a bit while surveying the traffic.

Yield to All Traffic

This is a critical safety step. And, remember that some roundabouts include crosswalks for pedestrians, so be prepared to yield to walkers as well. 

Choose your Lane, Signal

Look to your left, choose your lane, and make sure to signal before entering the roundabout.

Stay in Your Lane

Once in the roundabout, do not change lanes because it can confuse other motorists.

Practice Defensive Driving

Experts say one of the most challenging factors of driving through a roundabout is determining if other cars are going to go straight ahead or turn. By practicing defensive driving — being extra alert, cautious and driving slowly — you will be most able to safely negotiate a roundabout.

To learn more, watch the video here.