Roundabouts Made Simple: A Learner Driver’s Guide

Roundabouts are one of the most common worries for learners. Using the same routine every time makes even large, multi-lane ones manageable.

The basic rule

In the UK you give way to traffic coming from your right, which is already on the roundabout, unless road markings or signals tell you otherwise.

Use MSPSL on the approach

• Mirrors: check what's behind.
• Signal: if needed, for your exit.
• Position: in the correct lane as early as possible.
• Speed: slow down enough to stop if you need to.
• Look: look right early, and judge gaps as you approach, not only once you've stopped.

Which lane and which signal?

The Highway Code's general guidance, unless signs or markings say otherwise:

• Turning left (first exit): signal left, approach in the left lane, and keep left.
• Going straight ahead: no signal on approach, usually left lane, then signal left after passing the exit before yours.
• Turning right (later exits): signal right, approach in the right lane, and keep right until you signal left after the exit before yours.

Lane markings and signs on the approach always take priority, so read them early.

Common mistakes

• Stopping when the way is clear, which can cause rear-end collisions
• Pulling out into too small a gap
• Forgetting to check the left mirror before leaving
• Not watching for cyclists and motorcyclists

We practise everything from mini-roundabouts in Liversedge to busier multi-lane junctions, building up gradually. Book a lesson to work on yours.