How to navigate a roundabout safely

What is the difference between a traffic circle and a roundabout?

A roundabout functions differently from a traffic circle. In a roundabout, you must yield to vehicles already inside the circle, whereas in a traffic circle, it’s the opposite.

Since traffic moves continuously and at low speed, the risk of serious collisions is greatly reduced. This also improves traffic flow. Despite this, many drivers still find it difficult to enter or exit a roundabout.

Why are roundabouts so popular?

Roundabouts are an effective solution to road congestion. They eliminate complete stops, unlike traffic lights and stop signs. They also significantly improve road safety. Their design reduces serious collisions, particularly right-angle crashes, which are among the most dangerous.

Additionally, this circular solution is considered less costly to maintain than a traditional signalized intersection.

How to navigate a multi-lane roundabout

Which lane should you use depending on where you want to go, who has the right of way, what speed to maintain, and when to signal?

Here are the steps for navigating a roundabout safely:

1. Approaching the roundabout

Slow down: Roundabouts are designed for low-speed traffic. Recommended speed signs (often 25 or 30km/h) may be posted.

Check for pedestrians and cyclists: If present, be prepared to stop.

Identify your exit: Look at the signs indicating destinations for each exit. Have a clear idea of which exit you need before entering the circle.

2. Yielding the right of way

Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians already inside the roundabout have priority over you. Slow down and yield as needed to proceed safely.

3. Entering and driving through the circle

Key points for entering and driving through the roundabout:

• Enter the roundabout to the right.
• Use the left lane to go straight or to continue around the circle.
• Use the right lane to turn right or to exit straight ahead.
• Travel counterclockwise to reach your exit.

Note: Stopping inside a roundabout is strictly prohibited.

4. Exiting while signalling your intentions

• Use your left turn signal if continuing around the circle, then switch to your right signal as you approach your exit.
• Check again for pedestrians and cyclists.

What should you do if you miss your exit?

Don’t panic—and above all, don’t brake suddenly or reverse inside the roundabout. Simply go around again and take the correct exit on your next pass.

What are the common mistakes to avoid in roundabouts?

These common roundabout mistakes create unsafe conditions and unnecessary traffic disruptions:

• Forgetting to signal your exit
• Stopping inside the roundabout (this is prohibited!)
• Choosing the wrong lane
• Failing to yield at the entry

What are the penalties for not following the rules in a roundabout?

Here is an overview of the penalties for failing to comply with road safety rules in roundabouts.

What should you do when an emergency vehicle enters a roundabout?

The Highway Safety Code is clear. At all times, you must yield to emergency vehicles (fire trucks, ambulances, police) operating with their lights and sirens on. However, yielding to an emergency vehicle in a roundabout is handled differently than on other roads:

• Yield before entering or after exiting the roundabout.
• If you are already inside, continue to the nearest exit and clear the lane quickly and carefully.
• Never stop inside the roundabout. This creates a dangerous obstacle.

The goal is to clear the way without blocking traffic, while respecting other road users.

In short, roundabouts save time—but more importantly, they save lives, by reducing the number and severity of accidents.