How to Navigate Through a Roundabout

Author: Martha Petteys
Date: 5/3/2007
Source: PostStar.com

If the prospect of using Glens Falls' new roundabout has you nervous, take a ride down to Exit 12 on the Northway. Hang a left off the exit ramp and you'll wind through four new roundabouts before hitting Route 9 less than a mile down the road.

Master that and one roundabout should be easy.

For those who would like to study up first, the state Department of Transportation offers these directions for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians when using a roundabout:

For drivers

• Find the street and direction in which you wish to go on signs before reaching the intersection.
• As you approach the roundabout, look ahead to see any pedestrians and bicyclists that might be entering the intersection and yield to them.
• Yield to all circulating traffic at the yield line.
• When sufficient space and time to enter traffic occurs, enter the roundabout.
• Use your right turn single to let other drivers know you are exiting the roundabout before your desired exit.
• Again, when exiting, look ahead to see any pedestrians and bicyclists that might be entering the intersection and yield to them.

For bicyclists

• If you are comfortable riding in traffic, take the lane and circulate like you are a vehicle, making sure to yield to traffic in the circle when entering.
• Ride at the speed of the circular roadway to discourage cars from passing you.
• When you exit the roundabout, use your right hand signal.
• If you are uncomfortable riding through the roundabout, dismount and walk your bike as a pedestrian at the designated crosswalks.

For pedestrians

• Always stay on the designated walkways approaching and leaving the roundabout.
• Never cross to the center island.
• Do not assume that cars will stop to let you cross. Only enter the crosswalk when there are no cars coming or when you are certain that all of the oncoming traffic is yielding to you.