Roundabouts can feel confusing at first, especially for new drivers. But once we understand how to approach them, navigate lanes, and signal properly, they become simple and even stress-free.

The goal is to move safely, avoid mistakes, and make driving predictable for everyone around us. Today, we’ll break down five practical tips that can help us master roundabouts and drive confidently every time we approach one.

Know Your Exits

The first key step is to know the number and positions of exits in a roundabout. Exits are usually counted counterclockwise, starting from the entry point: first exit, second exit, third exit, and so on. Not all roundabouts are standard—some may have five, six, or even eight exits. Paying attention to these details helps us follow navigation instructions correctly and prevents last-minute lane changes that can confuse other drivers or cause accidents.

Before entering a roundabout, we should identify our target exit and plan our lane choice in advance. For example, if our destination is the first exit, we will stay in the outer lane the entire time. For a third or fourth exit, we may need to start in the inner lane and shift to the outer lane just before exiting. Knowing exits ahead of time reduces stress and makes our driving smoother.

Understand Who Has the Right of Way

Right-of-way rules are essential for safe roundabout navigation. Vehicles already inside the roundabout always have priority, meaning cars entering must yield. Similarly, if we are switching lanes within the roundabout—from the outer lane to the inner lane, or vice versa—we must give way to cars that are continuing in their lane.

Cars behind us should also respect our position if we are already ahead in the same lane. Following these rules prevents collisions, keeps traffic flowing smoothly, and avoids confusion. As we gain experience, yielding becomes second nature, and navigating roundabouts feels much easier.

Use Your Turn Signals Properly

Signaling is another critical element. We don’t need to signal when entering the roundabout, but any lane changes within require clear signaling. Before exiting, we must turn on the right-turn signal after passing the exit just before ours.

For instance, if our exit is the third one, we signal after passing the second exit. Proper signaling helps other drivers predict our movements and reduces sudden stops or swerves. It also demonstrates responsible driving, which keeps everyone safer and minimizes stress when traffic is busy.

Choose the Right Lane

Lane choice can be tricky, but it becomes intuitive once we understand the rules. The inner lane usually allows faster circulation and is less affected by entering or exiting traffic. However, it may require a lane change before we leave. The outer lane is easier for exiting, but traffic entering and leaving the roundabout may slow us down.

A practical strategy is this: if our exit is within two exits from entry, we stay in the outer lane. If our exit is more than two exits away, we start in the inner lane and shift to the outer lane before exiting. For example, if we are taking the third exit, we enter in the inner lane, pass the second exit, then signal and move to the outer lane before leaving. This approach keeps our movement smooth and predictable, reducing stress for both us and other drivers.

Watch for Traffic Signals

Finally, some roundabouts are equipped with traffic lights, either before entering or inside the circle. We must pay close attention, especially when we see a stop line on the road. Many new drivers feel overwhelmed when a traffic light appears in a roundabout. By observing lights carefully, we avoid running red lights and prevent accidents.

Being alert also helps us anticipate other drivers’ actions. If we notice someone not signaling or entering too quickly, we can adjust our speed and lane choice accordingly. Staying aware of signals and other vehicles makes navigating roundabouts safer and less stressful.

Roundabouts Made Easy

Navigating roundabouts doesn’t have to be complicated. By remembering three simple rules—don’t run red lights, avoid collisions, and choose the correct exit—we can handle roundabouts with confidence. Planning ahead, signaling clearly, choosing the right lane, and staying aware of traffic lights all combine to make driving safer and smoother.

With practice, roundabouts stop being intimidating. Instead, they become just another part of our daily driving routine, where we can stay calm, confident, and in control. Next time we approach a roundabout, let’s remember these five tips and enjoy the drive, stress-free and safe.