Roundabouts are a very effective way of traffic management at multiple exit road intersections. That assumes that all motorists obey the rules and drive with safety at all times. Drivers who do not obey the rules cause collisions, injuries and delays to general traffic.
In this week’s Sun Wheels Column, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) reminds drivers of the rules for negotiating roundabouts.
All motorists entering a roundabout must always give way to traffic coming from the right. An approaching motorist has to wait for a safe gap to appear in the flow of traffic before entering.
Don’t be a road hog! Signal your intention clearly and at the right time to let other motorists know your intention.
Your speed in entering a roundabout must be proportionate to the traffic conditions. Never exceed the speed limit.
If a 4-way junction is controlled by Stop Signs you must stop your vehicle behind the stop line, check for traffic at other parts of the junction if all clear proceed with your traffic movement. If another vehicle is at a Stop Street and was there before you the rule is that the first vehicle at the junction is the first to move across the junction.
Safety at Roundabouts:
Approaching a roundabout: Vehicles entering a roundabout must give way to vehicles on your right that are on the roundabout.
Giving way at a roundabout: The driver must slow down and if necessary, stop to avoid a collision.
Turning left: On your approach to a roundabout you must select the left lane, signal left, stay in the left lane to exit.
Going straight ahead: Do not signal when approaching the roundabout but always signal left before exiting a roundabout. You may approach the roundabout from either left or right lanes (unless there are road markings with other instructions), drive in the same lane through the roundabout and exit in the same lane.
Turning right: On your approach, to a roundabout you must select the right lane, signal right, stay in the right lane and signal left before exiting into the right lane.
Making a U-turn: When you use the roundabout to make a U-turn on your approach signal right from the right lane, stay in the right lane, but signal left before exiting into the right lane.
Exiting a roundabout: If practical, you must always signal left when exiting a roundabout.
The rules for slowing down, giving way and signaling when approaching and exiting at roundabouts are the same for single lane and multi-lane roundabouts.
Roundabouts and bicycle riders
Bicycle riders are allowed to turn right from the left hand lane. When passing each exit, the rider must give way to any vehicle leaving the roundabout from that exit.
Risks to watch for:
- Take extra care whenever you drive in a roundabout
- Keep an eye out for cars that are leaving the roundabout
- Be careful if changing lanes in a roundabout, particularly when leaving
- Look out for vehicles that are making a full turn
- Watch for bicycles, long vehicles and motorcycles.
Road Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Keep death off the road.
Contact us on Tel: 339 2166 or Toll Free: 0800 334 2886
Email: help@lta.com.fj or Visit our website: www.lta.com.fj