While roundabouts are often seen as a fairly European idea, they are appearing more and more frequently across Ontario. Nowadays, knowing the rules of a roundabout and how to use them properly is more important than ever to prevent accidents and to ensure you are following the rules of the road.
Why Do We Use Roundabouts?
Roundabouts are used because they are safer than traffic light and stop sign intersections. This is because in roundabouts, there are typically lower speeds and fewer places where serious accidents can occur. Additionally, the use of yield signs often prevents delays, lowers emissions by reducing idling times, and reduces congestion by keeping traffic flowing.
Right of Way
Drivers and cyclists already using the roundabout have the right of way, so make sure you yield to them before entering the roundabout. Additionally, it is essential to yield to pedestrians crossing at their designated crosswalks before entering or exiting roundabouts to ensure everyone’s safety. Pedestrians should stay alert, try to make eye contact with drivers, and signal their intent when crossing at their crosswalks to ensure they are crossing when it is safe to do so.
Entering a Roundabout
When approaching a roundabout, look for signage to indicate which lane you should be in for your desired exit and use the appropriate lane. With two-lane roundabouts, typically, you use the left lane to turn left or to go straight, and the right lane to turn right or go straight. Make sure you slow down and yield for pedestrians and any vehicles already in the roundabout.
When entering a roundabout, make sure you do a visual check, but pay extra attention to vehicles on your left. Wait for a safe gap before entering, and do not enter directly beside another vehicle, as they may be exiting at the next exit. Make sure you always travel in a counter-clockwise direction, and keep to the right of the centre island.
Exiting a Roundabout
When exiting a roundabout, make sure you watch for pedestrians and signal. Regarding signalling, if you are turning right, keep your right signal on; if you are going straight, use your right signal when approaching the exit; if you are turning left, keep your left signal on until your exit, and then use your right signal when approaching the exit.
Make sure you stay in your lane and maintain your position relative to other vehicles. If you are exiting from the left lane, watch out for vehicles on your right.
Emergency Vehicles
According to the Government of Ontario’s website, “If you are in a roundabout when an emergency vehicle approaches, exit at your intended exit and proceed beyond the traffic island before pulling over. If you have not entered the roundabout yet, pull over to the right if possible and wait until the emergency vehicle has passed.”
Common Collisions
While roundabouts are safer, accidents still occur. Common accidents include rear-end collisions, usually near the entrance of roundabouts when drivers are not paying attention, collisions when entering a roundabout when a driver fails to yield, and at exits when drivers are in the incorrect lane. Staying alert and following the proper rules can reduce the likelihood of those accidents.
Even if you drive carefully and follow the rules of the road, accidents can still occur. If this happens, it is important to speak with an experienced lawyer.
