Roundabouts
Approach, negotiate and exit roundabouts in the correct lane, with the right signals and good observation.
Ask first: agree the goal
- “How do you feel about roundabouts right now? Which part worries you most?”
- “What would you like to be able to do on a roundabout by the end of today?”
Ready when
- Emerging & Approaching at Prompted or better
- Signals at Prompted or better
Where to go
Start with small, quiet roundabouts. Then mini roundabouts, then larger multi-lane ones.
Brief (parked)
- Give way to traffic coming from the right unless signs or markings say otherwise.
- Going left: signal left and approach in the left lane. Going right: signal right, right lane, keep right, signal left after passing the exit before yours.
- Going ahead: usually no signal on approach, left lane unless markings show otherwise, signal left after passing the exit before yours.
Practice, simple to demanding
- Small roundabout: left exit several times.
- Same roundabout: ahead, then right.
- Mix up the exits and ask the pupil to plan the lane and signal on approach.
- Mini roundabouts, then larger ones with more lanes and traffic lights.
When it goes wrong
Stops at the line when the roundabout is clear.
Why: Looks too late, so has to stop to look.
Fix: Look right early on the approach. If the roundabout is clear, keep rolling.
Wrong lane for the exit.
Why: Does not read the signs on approach.
Fix: Ask them to read the approach sign aloud and name the lane before they reach it.
Forgets to signal left before the exit.
Why: All attention on steering round.
Fix: Count the exits aloud. Signal as soon as they pass the exit before theirs.
Not ready yet
Use only small, quiet roundabouts and left exits until speed and steering are secure.
Ready for more
Add large multi-lane roundabouts and roundabouts with traffic lights.
Debrief: the pupil answers first
- Which part of the roundabout took the most concentration?
- How did you know which lane to use?
Usually next: Pedestrian Crossings