When using a roundabout or rotary island, drivers should:
Answers
Yield to entering traffic.
Yield to traffic already in the roundabout.
Drive in a clockwise direction.
Stop within the rotary island.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is “Yield to traffic already in the roundabout.”
Explanation:
Roundabouts (or rotary islands) are designed to improve traffic flow and safety by reducing the likelihood of high-speed collisions typically seen at intersections. The main rule when using a roundabout is to yield to traffic that is already circulating within the roundabout.
Key Points for Navigating Roundabouts:
- Yield to Traffic Already in the Roundabout:
When entering a roundabout, you must give way to the vehicles that are already circulating. These vehicles have the right of way. This is because the roundabout is a continuous flow of traffic, and allowing circulating vehicles to pass without interruption helps maintain traffic flow and prevents congestion. - Do Not Stop Within the Roundabout:
You should never stop within the roundabout unless necessary for safety (for example, if another vehicle is merging unexpectedly). Stopping can block the flow of traffic and cause delays. The roundabout is designed for continuous movement, so stopping inside it disrupts this flow. - Drive in a Counterclockwise Direction (in countries with right-hand traffic):
In most countries where vehicles drive on the right (such as the United States), vehicles must travel in a counterclockwise direction around the central island. This ensures that vehicles pass to the right of the central island and that all drivers move in a consistent, predictable direction. - Do Not Yield to Entering Traffic:
The correct procedure when entering the roundabout is to yield to the traffic already in it, not to vehicles that are waiting to enter. This ensures that vehicles inside the roundabout continue moving, preventing unnecessary stoppages.
By adhering to these rules, roundabouts can function efficiently and safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents compared to traditional intersections.