Going straight ahead at a roundabout (following the road ahead), you need to do a little planning on the approach. As well as searching for a gap in the traffic flow, you also have to select the appropriate lane. This is normally the left-hand lane unless road markings or traffic signs show otherwise.
You can however, use the right-hand lane in some circumstances. For instance, if you are on a dual-carriageway then you may have two lanes. Both of these may be available to go straight ahead at a roundabout. You should maintain whichever lane you use on the approach until the exit. Don’t cut across into the other lanes.
You don’t need to signal before entering the roundabout, but you should still check your mirrors before slowing down on the approach. Take regular observation to your right and towards your exit. You need to make sure that nothing is passing in front of you before you set off. Also, make sure that there is no queuing traffic ahead. If your exit is blocked you should not enter the roundabout. Doing so could mean that you get stuck half-way across. This could block the path of other drivers from entering or leaving the junction.
Once you’ve safely entered the junction, check your mirrors again and then signal left, (marked S on the diagram). You should do this just as you pass the exit before yours to let people know you’re going to leave the roundabout.
Taking the road straight ahead at a roundabout:Â Â Â Â Â
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- no signal on the approach
- keep to your normal position (unless directed otherwise)
- give way to the right
- make sure you’ve a clear path through the roundabout
- signal left at point ‘S’ and be aware of anything that may be on your exit road.
For more information about roundabouts and other junctions, read Learning to Drive – The Learner Driver’s Manual