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.