There are two types of roundabouts, conventional and spiral roundabouts (see page 81). When using any roundabout, follow the advice on this page.

At a roundabout, those approaching must give way to traffic already on the roundabout. Any exceptions to this rule are always clearly indicated by traffic signs and road markings.

Never try to use a roundabout unless you know:

  • which way you intend to go long before you reach the junction. Any direction sign placed before the roundabout will be of help;
  • the arm signal that you should give before manoeuvre; and
  • the exact route and road position you should take throughout the manoeuvre.

Turning right

illustration

For turning right or going straight ahead, you should approach on the left, during and after the manoeuver. Once riding on the roundabout, watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave or enter the roundabout. Keep left and signal left as you approach your exit.

Keep to the outside of the roundabout paying particular attention to traffic on the right which may cut across your path to leave the roundabout; and traffic which is entering the roundabout ahead of you. Stop, if in doubt or necessary, before crossing an entrance or exit.

Signal left when you are about to reach your exit.

Other traffic also approaches in the right-hand lane but it is often safer for a cyclist to keep left.

If in doubt or you feel unsafe to negotiate the roundabout, get off and push your cycle along the pedestrian route.

Going straight ahead

illustration

Turning left

illustration

You should approach on the left signalling left as you get near the junction. You must give way to traffic on the roundabout. Once on the roundabout, keep left and signal left again as you approach your exit.