Simple guide to roundabout rules

Roundabouts. They probably create more confusion than any other traffic device among road users, especially since the recent changes to the rules in NSW. Our recent snippet about the rules that apply at roundabout generated a flurry of emails, each with their own version of the rules.

Suffice to say the RTA, now Roads and Maritime Services, has just released a simple guide to the top 10 most misunderstood road rules in NSW. And, you guessed it, top of the list is what to do at a roundabout.

Approaching a roundabout:

Drivers approaching a roundabout must use their indicator if they intend to turn left or right, or make a U-turn at the roundabout. They must give other road users sufficient notice of their intent to turn.

Entering a roundabout:

Drivers must slow or stop to give way to any vehicle already in the roundabout. Drivers must also continue to use their indicator if they intend to turn left, right or make a U-turn.

Turning left:

Drivers must indicate left on approach and be travelling in the left-hand lane (unless there are road markings with other instructions), stay in the left lane and exit in the left lane.

Going straight ahead:

There is no requirement for drivers to signal when approaching the roundabout, if they are going straight ahead. Drivers may approach the roundabout from either the left or right lane (unless there are road markings with other instructions).

Turning right:

Drivers must indicate right on approach and be travelling in the right-hand lane (unless there are road markings with other instructions).

Making a U-turn:

When using a roundabout to make a U-turn, drivers must approach in the right lane and signal right.

Changing lanes in a roundabout:

Drivers may change lanes in a roundabout if they wish. The usual road rules for changing lanes apply. Drivers must use their indicator and give way to any vehicle in the lane they are entering.

Exiting a roundabout:

Just like exiting any road, drivers must signal left when leaving a roundabout, if it is practical to do so, and stop indicating as soon as they have exited the roundabout. When travelling straight ahead on a small single lane roundabout, it may be impractical to indicate left when exiting.