For a learning driver, mastering roundabouts and intersections is essential to master driving. However, they can sometimes be overwhelming to many beginners as they require instant decision-making, the right skills and communication with other drivers.
In this blog, you’ll explore how mastering roundabouts and intersections can greatly boost your driving confidence and safety. How to handle them safely.
Additionally, we’ll also share a reliable and trusted driving school in Stanhope Gardens to make your learning journey hassle-free and fun.
Approaching Roundabouts
Firstly, slow down to 15-25 mph as you near a roundabout. Next, yield to traffic already circling inside. Watch for pedestrians or cyclists at crosswalks, and always stay behind yield lines.
Moreover, choose your lane early: use the right lane for right turns or first exits. On the other hand, pick the left lane for left turns or multiple exits in multi-lane setups, following any signage. Finally, enter only when a safe gap appears, and signal your intent clearly.
Navigating Inside Roundabouts
Once inside, circulate counter-clockwise without stopping unless absolutely needed. Similarly, maintain your lane and keep a safe following distance.
Then, signal right just before your exit to alert others. Also, give trucks extra space, since they may use inner lanes or overhang the centre island.
Exiting Roundabouts Safely
After that, yield again to pedestrians at exit crosswalks. Importantly, if you miss your exit, circle once more instead of reversing or cutting across.
Furthermore, watch for rear-end risks in new roundabouts. However, remember that they cut severe crashes by 75% overall compared to signalled intersections.
Handling Standard Intersections
At stop signs or lights, come to a full stop behind the lines. Then, scan left, right, and left again. Proceed only when clear, yielding right-of-way as rules require. For example, first to arrive or rightmost if tied.
For turns, signal 100 feet ahead: turn left into oncoming gaps, or right after shoulder checks. If going straight, do mirror and blind-spot checks to prevent sideswipes.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Rushing entry without yielding, which may lead to crashes.
- Drifting lanes in multi-lane spots.
- Honking or stopping inside. This may lead to a traffic jam.
Master Driving With Green & Gold Driving School
Green & Gold Driving School, a renowned and trusted Castle Hill driving school, offers affordable driving lessons and prepares students for the driving test.
We provide safe, professional and tailored driving lessons and make learning to drive safe, simple and fun.
Our RMS-accredited instructors are dedicated to helping learners of all levels become confident, responsible drivers.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or refining your driving skills, our goal is to prepare you for real-world driving and your driving test.
Contact Green & Gold Driving School and pass your driving test with flying colours in one go!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When do you indicate at a roundabout in Australia?
You must indicate a left when exiting any roundabout if possible, regardless of whether you’re going straight or turning. Also, don’t forget to signal right when entering and left before your exit.
2. What happens if you miss your exit at a roundabout?
If you miss your exit at a roundabout, stay calm, continue driving around and exit at the next opportunity. Do not rush, stop, reverse or make a sudden lane change as it may lead to fatal accidents.
3. Who gives way to pedestrians at roundabout exits?
Drivers exiting a roundabout must give way to pedestrians who are crossing the exit road, particularly if the vehicle is turning into that road.
