One of the things learners find most difficult during driver training is roundabouts. To help learner drivers feel more confident at roundabouts, driving instructors need to ensure their learner drivers understand how roundabouts work. They can vary in size, from large and busy to very small, so a better understanding of them will definitely help learner drivers.
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Observation
Most large roundabouts can be identified well in advance as they will be displayed on road signs. You should therefore take notice of information like this because identifying them early will give you more time to prepare.
If you are approaching a roundabout, you need to give way to the traffic that is already on it. On approach, you should follow this routine:
- Mirror (as you may need to change lanes, so ensure you check traffic using internal and wing mirrors)
- Signal (if going left or right)
- Position (get in the correct lane)
- Speed (approach in second gear)
- Look (ensure you observe the traffic around you)
Turning left off a roundabout
Indicate left and approach in the left-hand lane.
Turning right off a roundabout
Indicate right whilst approaching in the right-hand lane. Stay on the right on the roundabout until you need to exit. You must indicate left when you pass the exit just before the one you will be using.
Going straight ahead at a roundabout
If there are no road markings or signs, you should stay in the left lane on approach. Indicate left when you want to exit the roundabout.
Don’t assume other drivers will be in the correct lane or will indicate on roundabouts.
A great place to learn how to be more confident at roundabouts in in Carshalton
Good observation is crucial, and if you approach a roundabout in the correct lane, at the correct speed and using your mirrors, you will soon be driving round them with confidence.
