Comprehensive Guide to Roundabouts for Learner Drivers

1. Approaching a Roundabout

MSM Routine (Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre)

1. Mirrors: Check your interior and left door mirror
2. Signal: Indicate left if taking the first exit, right if taking later exits (unless signs/markings indicate otherwise)
3. Manoeuvre: Position your vehicle correctly:
   • Left lane for left turns (usually 1st exit)
   • Right lane for right turns (usually 3rd exit or beyond)
   • Middle lane(s) for straight ahead (usually 2nd exit)

Speed Control

Distance from Roundabout	Action
50-40 yards	Check mirrors and start signalling
30 yards	Select appropriate gear (usually 2nd)
20 yards	Final mirror checks and adjust speed

2. Entering the Roundabout

Priority Rules

• Give way to traffic approaching from your right
• Watch for vehicles already on the roundabout
• Look out for cyclists and motorcycles that may be harder to see

Entry Timing

Gap Size	Action
Large gap	Proceed with caution
Medium gap	Only proceed if you can do so safely without causing others to slow down
Small gap	Wait for a safer opportunity

3. Navigating the Roundabout

Lane Discipline

• Maintain your lane position throughout
• Don't change lanes on the roundabout unless necessary
• Watch for road markings that may require specific lane use

Observation Points

1. Approach: Scan for pedestrians at crossings
2. Entry: Check right blind spot before entering
3. Circulating: Continually check mirrors and blind spots
4. Exit: Check left mirror and blind spot before exiting

4. Exiting the Roundabout

Signalling to Exit

• Signal left after passing the exit before the one you want
• Maintain signal until you've completely exited
• Check left mirror and blind spot before exiting

Exit Speed

Exit Type	Recommended Gear
Straight onto major road	Accelerate to appropriate speed (usually 3rd gear)
Tight turn	Stay in 2nd gear, controlled speed
Uphill exit	May need 1st gear if steep

5. Special Roundabout Types

Mini Roundabouts

• Same rules apply but in smaller space
• May need to go slower (sometimes 1st gear)
• Can drive over the centre if necessary (but avoid if possible)

Spiral Roundabouts

• Lanes spiral outwards toward exits
• Follow lane markings carefully
• Less need to change lanes - your lane will take you to your exit

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Not signalling or signalling incorrectly
• ❌ Stopping when it's safe to proceed
• ❌ Changing lanes on the roundabout
• ❌ Cutting across other vehicles' paths
• ❌ Driving too fast for the roundabout size

7. Practice Exercises

Visualisation Practice

1. Study roundabout diagrams and plan your route
2. Watch videos of roundabout navigation
3. Practice with a driving instructor in quiet areas first

Passenger Practice

• Have an experienced driver talk you through approaches
• Practice commentary driving (say what you're seeing and planning)
• Build up from quiet to busy roundabouts gradually

8. Highway Code Rules

Rule	Requirement
184	Give way to traffic from the right
185	Signal correctly and in good time
186	Use appropriate lanes
187	Special rules for mini-roundabouts