Thursday, 31 January 2013

Roundabouts Part 2

Last week, we tackled the problem of roundabouts and how to successfully navigate them. It was a large topic and therefore I decided to split it into two sections.
This section specifically targets Mini Roundabouts. After reading this, you should be ready to go out there and try it for real!







Mini Roundabouts



·  Approach these in the same way as a normal roundabout, but remember there is less space and time to signal and manoeuvre.

·  Vehicles coming towards you, they may want to turn right.

·  Be sure any vehicle on the roundabout is going to leave before you join the roundabout yourself.

·  Be aware of drivers that are using it for a 'U turn'.

·  All vehicles MUST pass round the central markings except large vehicles which are physically incapable of doing so.

·  When turning right at a mini roundabout, you don't always have time to signal, but remember to check left mirror. 

Multiple Mini roundabouts. 

At some complex junctions, there may be a series of mini-roundabouts at the intersections. Treat each roundabout separately and give way to traffic from the right.
When negotiating a number of junctions within a short distance of each other, choose a lane that puts you in the correct position for the next one.


In all cases watch out for and give plenty of room to: 


·  pedestrians who may be crossing the approach and exit roads.

·  traffic crossing in front of you on the roundabout, especially vehicles intending to leave by the next exit.

·  traffic which may be straddling lanes or positioned incorrectly.

·  motorcyclists.

·  cyclists and horse riders who may stay in the left-hand lane and signal right if they intend to continue round the roundabout.

·  long vehicles (including those towing trailers) which might have to take a different course approaching or on the roundabout because of their length. Watch out for their signals. 

That's roundabouts completed! Make sure you understand it all, and feel free to comment if you're having any problems and I'll get back to you. 

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