Driving can be confusing, especially when encountering something new or unfamiliar. Roundabouts might seem strange if you have never used them before. They are not always as common in some areas, yet they are becoming more popular nationwide.
Why are more towns replacing regular intersections with roundabouts, and what do you need to know to drive through them safely?
If you or a loved one been involved in a roundabout accident, contact an Atlanta car accident lawyer today to learn about your legal options, protect your interests, and work toward getting the support you need.
Table of contents
- What Is a Roundabout?
- What Is the Correct Way to Enter a Roundabout?
- Who Has the Right of Way in a Roundabout?
- Why Should You Use Your Turn Signal?
- What Common Mistakes Do Drivers Make in Roundabouts?
- How to Exit a Roundabout Without Confusion?
- Is There a Right Turn Lane in Roundabouts?
- Why Do Roundabouts Reduce Car Crashes?
- What If You Have a Large Vehicle or Trailer?
- What If the Other Driver Blames You?
- Can a Roundabout Accident Be More Complicated Legally?
- What Are Common Injuries from a Roundabout Collision?
- Will My Insurance Go Up If I Crash in a Roundabout?
- What If the City Designed the Roundabout Poorly?
- What If You Miss Your Exit?
- Can Roundabouts Work in Every Situation?
- When Should You Call a Car Accident Lawyer?
- Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today
What Is a Roundabout?
A roundabout is a circular intersection. Instead of traffic lights or stop signs, cars travel around a center island counterclockwise (in countries where people drive on the right side of the road). There are usually yield signs at each entrance. Drivers must slow down, look for other vehicles already in the circle, and merge into traffic when it is safe.
Roundabouts can replace traditional intersections with traffic lights or a four-way stop. In many cases, roundabouts are safer and handle more cars in less time. But if you have never driven through one, you may feel unsure.
You might ask, “Where do I go? Who goes first?” These are common questions, and we will answer them here.
What Is the Correct Way to Enter a Roundabout?
You should see a sign telling you to slow down when you approach a roundabout. There will also be a yield sign. This means you must pay attention to the vehicles already in the circle. If a car or truck is passing by, wait until they have gone before you enter. Do not stop once you are in the circle unless there is an emergency. The key is to keep moving in a safe, controlled manner.
Position Your Car
While you are still outside the roundabout, decide the lane you need. In many single-lane roundabouts, there is only one choice. In multi-lane roundabouts, however, you should pick the lane based on where you plan to exit. Usually, signs or road markings will guide you. Ensure you are in the correct lane before entering so you will not have to make sudden moves inside the circle.
Watch for Pedestrians
Some roundabouts have crosswalks near each entrance. Watch for anyone on foot. Pedestrians have the right of way, so make sure they are safe before you pull forward. Driving carefully here helps keep everyone safe.
Who Has the Right of Way in a Roundabout?
The most important rule is that traffic in the roundabout has the right of way. Drivers entering the circle must yield. You only move into the roundabout when there is a gap in traffic. Inside the circle, you travel counterclockwise until you reach the exit you want. Do not change lanes suddenly or try to pass other cars inside a single-lane roundabout.
If you are unsure whether it is your turn, stop and wait for a clear break in traffic. Drivers behind you might be impatient, but it is better to be safe. Moving into the circle when another car is too close can lead to a collision.
Why Should You Use Your Turn Signal?
Signaling helps other drivers understand what you plan to do. This is especially true in multi-lane roundabouts. Put on your right turn signal when you are inside the circle and getting ready to exit.
This tells others you plan to leave at the next exit. If you do not signal, someone might think you are staying in the roundabout, and they can pull forward, causing a crash.
What Common Mistakes Do Drivers Make in Roundabouts?
Common mistakes drivers make in roundabouts include:
- Entering Too Fast: Rushing into a roundabout without slowing down is a major problem. This can lead to loss of control or near-misses with cars already inside.
- Stopping Inside the Circle: Once you have entered, you should keep moving. Stopping suddenly for no reason can confuse other drivers and cause fender benders.
- Forgetting to Yield: Not yielding to traffic in the circle is a common error. This can lead to side-swipes or front-end collisions.
- Failing to Signal When Exiting: If you do not use your signal, other drivers may not know your intentions, creating dangerous situations.
- Trying to Pass: Passing in a single-lane roundabout is rarely safe or legal. If you must pass, ensure the roundabout has multiple lanes, and even then, use caution.
Many of these mistakes happen because drivers are unsure of the rules or feel pressured by traffic. The best way to avoid these errors is to take time and focus on what is happening.
How to Exit a Roundabout Without Confusion?
To leave a roundabout safely, make sure you know the exit you want ahead of time. When you enter, look for the correct road sign or lane markings. As you approach your exit, turn on your right blinker. Check your mirrors and look to the side to ensure no one is passing you or merging into your lane. Keep a steady speed, and exit smoothly.
Is There a Right Turn Lane in Roundabouts?
Some roundabouts, especially larger ones, have specific right-turn lanes. If you only want to make a quick right at the first exit, you can do so without entering the main circle. These lanes allow cars to flow out quickly, reducing backups.
Why Do Roundabouts Reduce Car Crashes?
Roundabouts reduce severe crashes because traffic moves in a slower, steady stream. Traditional intersections allow head-on collisions or side impacts at higher speeds, which can lead to major car accident injuries. In roundabouts, you usually see collisions like fender benders or side-swipes at lower speeds, which are less likely to be deadly.
By replacing stop signs or traffic lights with yield signs and a circular flow, roundabouts force drivers to pay closer attention. Many people slow down automatically when they see a roundabout, which also helps safety. Although some drivers dislike the learning curve, data shows that roundabouts often lead to fewer serious accidents once people get used to them.
What If You Have a Large Vehicle or Trailer?
Driving a larger vehicle, like an RV or a truck with a trailer, takes more space. In a roundabout, you might need to use both lanes if it is multi-lane or position yourself carefully in a single-lane circle. You must pay extra attention to your mirrors and blind spots. Move slowly and communicate with other drivers if it is safe.
Some roundabouts have a “truck apron.” This is a slightly raised area around the central island that allows the back wheels of big trucks to roll over it if needed. This design feature helps ensure larger vehicles can make the turns without hitting curbs or other cars. If you are driving a big rig, be cautious and use the space available. Other drivers should also be patient when they see a larger vehicle navigating a roundabout.
What If the Other Driver Blames You?
Roundabout rules can be confusing, so the other driver might try to say you were at fault. Maybe they claim you did not yield or you signaled incorrectly. If you believe you are not at fault, you should gather evidence and talk to witnesses if any saw the crash. Take photos of the scene and the damage to both cars. Note any skid marks or signs showing who might have caused the collision.
If the case becomes more complicated, contact a car accident lawyer who can sort through the details. A lawyer can help collect evidence, deal with insurance companies, and build a strong argument on your behalf. Roundabout accidents can turn into “he said, she said” scenarios. Legal support gives you a better chance to prove what happened.
Can a Roundabout Accident Be More Complicated Legally?
Yes, sometimes. While roundabouts can lower the chance of a serious crash, confusion about the right of way or signaling can lead to disagreements. It might be easier to see who broke a traffic rule in a standard four-way stop. In a roundabout, each driver might argue differently about timing or signals. Police reports, witness statements, and any dashcam or security footage are vital in identifying the facts.
The cost can be high if the accident causes injuries that last for weeks, months, or even years. You might face medical bills, physical therapy, car repairs, or lost earnings from missing work. Insurance companies sometimes try to blame the injured driver partially to reduce what they must pay. Having a lawyer is a big help in these moments.
What Are Common Injuries from a Roundabout Collision?
Even though roundabout crashes are usually at lower speeds, people can still get hurt. Whiplash is a common neck injury caused by a sudden stop or jolt. A collision from behind can cause bumps and bruises. A side-swipe can cause you to spin or hit the curb, leading to possible injuries.
More serious injuries can include broken bones or head trauma if a driver or passenger hits a window or the steering wheel. Pedestrians might also get hurt if a driver fails to yield near the crosswalk.
You should take any injury seriously. Seek medical treatment right away, and remember to keep your medical records if you plan to file a claim.
Will My Insurance Go Up If I Crash in a Roundabout?
Insurance companies may raise your rates if they find you at fault in any accident, whether in a roundabout or elsewhere. This is one reason why determining fault matters so much. If you show the other driver did not follow the rules, you might avoid a rate hike. Your insurer will examine police reports, statements, and other evidence to decide who is responsible.
Even if you are not at fault, you may have to work through your coverage if the other driver lacks insurance or does not have enough to cover your damages. This can be a complicated process. Having legal support from a car accident attorney can communicate with both insurance companies, keep track of deadlines, and avoid mistakes.
What If the City Designed the Roundabout Poorly?
Sometimes, accidents occur because the roundabout itself is flawed. Maybe the signs are unclear, the lanes are too narrow, or the road markings have worn away. In rare cases, local governments or construction companies might be responsible for crashes if the roundabout does not meet safety standards.
Proving that a city or agency is at fault can be tougher than dealing with another driver. There may be laws that protect government bodies from certain lawsuits. Still, it is not impossible. If you think a poorly designed or maintained roundabout caused your accident, a car accident lawyer can look at the records and decide if there is a case. They may check for complaints about the roundabout before your crash or determine if the design fails to meet roadway guidelines.
What If You Miss Your Exit?
Sometimes, you might miss your planned exit in a roundabout. Perhaps traffic is heavy, or you did not spot the right sign in time. Missing the exit is not the end of the world. Simply continue around the circle one more time. Try to stay in the correct lane if there are multiple lanes. When you come around again, exit carefully. It might cost you a few extra seconds, but it is safer than making a sudden, sharp turn or cutting off another driver.
Can Roundabouts Work in Every Situation?
Roundabouts can be a great solution for many intersections, but they are not perfect everywhere. A roundabout might need special design features in areas with extremely high traffic, large trucks, or unusual road layouts. Some places add traffic lights to roundabouts during peak hours. Others might keep a traditional intersection if the space is limited.
In general, roundabouts can handle a wide range of traffic volumes. After installing them, many places see improved safety and reduced wait times.
When Should You Call a Car Accident Lawyer?
If you have been in a roundabout crash and are facing medical bills, repair costs, or questions about who is at fault, it might be time to speak with a car accident lawyer.
A skilled car accident attorney can help:
- Gather evidence like police reports, photos, and witness statements.
- Talk with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Determine if another driver or a poorly designed road caused the accident.
- Pursue fair compensation for your injuries, lost earnings, and other damages.
Many lawyers offer a free consultation to learn about your options with no risk. Dealing with insurance companies alone can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from an injury. A lawyer can guide you through the process and fight for a fair outcome.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Today
Roundabouts have grown in popularity because they can reduce accidents, improve traffic flow, and even reduce pollution. You can navigate roundabouts safely by following key rules—such as slowing down, yielding to traffic in the circle, and signaling when exiting.
These circular intersections might initially feel strange, but they offer many benefits once drivers understand how to use them.
Have you or a loved one been involved in a roundabout accident?
Contact a car accident lawyer today to learn about your legal options, protect your interests, and work toward getting the support you need to move forward.