Round About Question- Yikes!!!

[bsloan1960]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

[Davonu]

1) Yield to approaching vehicles in both lanes of the roundabout;
2) Never drive next to another vehicle in the roundabout.

[Marathon Man]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

It's about understanding the proper way to navigate through a two-lane roundabout. When everyone does it correctly, it is not a crap shoot.

[Bill14564]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

Did you enter the right lane as a vehicle was approaching in the left lane, did a vehicle enter the left lane next to you and at the same time, or did the vehicle already in the left lane race up and overtake you before you passed the first exit? The first one is definitely your fault, the second is definitely his fault, and the third is unlikely.

[Keefelane66]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/attachments/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/51954d1433204149-how-navigate-roundabouts-roundabout-02-08-12-pdf

[bsloan1960]

Did you enter the right lane as a vehicle was approaching in the left lane, did a vehicle enter the left lane next to you and at the same time, or did the vehicle already in the left lane race up and overtake you before you passed the first exit? The first one is definitely your fault, the second is definitely his fault, and the third is unlikely.
As I recall we entered the circle at the same time.

[Rainger99]

As I recall we entered the circle at the same time.

Did you enter at the same time and from the same entrance? Or did you enter at the same time but he entered to your left?

If you both entered at 6, you have to exit at 3 or 12 and he has to exit at 12 or 9.

If the accident takes place at 3, it is his fault. If it takes place at 12 or 9, it is your fault.

If he entered at 9 and you entered at 6, he would have to be going fast or you would have to be going slow if you both reached 3 at the same time. Always be aware of other cars in the roundabout.

[MrChip72]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

All I know is when drivers all obey the rules, it’s like watching a ballet.

[mikreb]

It's just like a 4 way intersection. The right lane can turn right or go straight. The left lane can go straight or turn left.

[Randall55]

All I know is when drivers all obey the rules, it’s like watching a ballet.Whenever a vehicle is in the left lane in a round about, I automatically yield. The vehicle may need to crossover your path to exit It takes just a few seconds to allow the person in the left lane to maneuver out of the roundabout.

[Two Bills]

No one should have to yield in the roundabout.
That is the whole idea of them. Continuous flow.
If you have to yield, there are basically only two situations that are to blame.
1. You or the other vehicle, even both, are in the wrong lane.
2. Driver enters roundabout before both lanes to left are clear.
Speeding, changing lanes in roundabout could be added, but the two main reasons are those.
It is a very simple procedure if basic rule is followed.

[Eg_cruz]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks
When you enter the roundabout in the right lane ….you have to exit the 1st or 2nd right exit, if you go to the third then you are in the wrong.
Enter in the left lane you have to exit the 2nd or 3rd right exit.
It’s posted at every roundabout it’s not that hard

[asianthree]

Not everyone uses the roundabout correctly, that said at least once a week, (normally north of 466) the car next to me in the left lane, will turn right from the left lane.
No they don’t notice or care if there is a car next to them. They need to go that way, and will, turn in front of you.

I will hold up for a second to let that left lane enter first, so I don’t have to break so hard, when they incorrectly turn right (in front of my car.)

I also have the ability, of driving our larger second car, whenever traveling to the northern parts of TV. No fondness for it so if it’s sacrificed in a roundabout incident I should be ok.

[BillY41]

Motorists have to be educated on the proper driving entering, driving and exiting a roundabout. With all the roundabouts in TV this can be accomplished by written print and televised education. Lastly the enforcement of traffic laws and signals (summons enforcement) will help to accomplish this education.

[Laker14]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

If by "3rd" exit, you mean the one at 9 O'Clock, (assuming there are exits at 3, and 12) you should enter the roundabout from the left lane of a two lane entrance, and stay in the left lane until you exit.
As described previously, if you enter from the right lane, you MUST take the first (3 O'Clock) or second (12 O'Clock) exit. You may not stay in that outside lane past the 12 O'Clock exit, as the person in the left lane may properly take that 12 O'Clock exit from the inside lane. If you are in the outside lane and proceed to the next exit, you may collide with the inside car, which is properly taking the 12 O'Clock exit.

Here is a link explaining it in pictures. Open the link in the first post of the thread. The pictures explain exactly how your "rule of thumb" is incorrect. (if I am understanding you correctly)https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/how-navigate-roundabouts-155158/

[Slainte]

If I’m in the left lane & want to exit when the right lane is at all occupied, I just continue around again in the left lane & wait for the opportunity to move to the right lane to exit.

[golfing eagles]

If I’m in the left lane & want to exit when the right lane is at all occupied, I just continue around again in the left lane & wait for the opportunity to move to the right lane to exit.

Huh????? If you are in the inside lane, you do not have to move into the right lane to exit unless you are improperly trying to exit at the first exit. Just stay in your lane and exit at the 2nd or third exit, as you should. If someone is to you right at that time, they improperly entered the RB when you were coming around on the inside lane, or they entered with you and are trying to go to the third exit in the outside lane, and they are wrong. Of course, much better to go around once that get in an accident.

[Rainger99]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/how-navigate-roundabouts-155158/

The brochure is very clear. Does anyone disagree with this?

[Bogie Shooter]

And away we go……..:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:
Prediction 65 posts!

[Two Bills]

And away we go……..:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:
Prediction 65 posts!

I'll raise, and go all in.

[Laker14]

And away we go……..:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:
Prediction 65 posts!

Yes, it's true. This ground has been covered many times, but every time it comes up it becomes clear that too many people misunderstand the rules, so it's worth the time and trouble to try to educate folks in this regard.

The fender you save may be your own.

[Bogie Shooter]

Yes, it's true. This ground has been covered many times, but every time it comes up it becomes clear that too many people misunderstand the rules, so it's worth the time and trouble to try to educate folks in this regard.

The fender you save may be your own.

The ones who don’t know don’t read TOTV.

[Rainger99]

The ones who don’t know don’t read TOTV.

A absolutely false. From reading the posts, many who read TOTV also don’t know how to drive in a roundabout!

[Get real]

...............

[Get real]

It's just like a 4 way intersection. The right lane can turn right or go straight. The left lane can go straight or turn left.

That makes it too simple to understand. :BigApplause:

[MrFlorida]

I never enter a roundabout next to another driver... I always expect them to cut me off, especially with out of state drivers who may not know how a roundabout works here.

[Maker]

The brochure is very clear. Does anyone disagree with this?

Take each picture, make copies and overlay with rotating each copy by a quarter rotation. Now you have multiple cars entering and exiting in multiple lanes, with multiple combinations of the "right way" to travel.

Look at traffic entering and exiting from all 4 feeder roads. Notice now those specified travel lines now cross between copies when you look at the whole picture of all traffic from all directions. There are 24 potential collisions by following the directions in those diagrams.
So yes, I disagree.

I propose something very simple.
The right (outside) lane of the round about must always exit at every side road. Car cannot continue going in circles using the right lane.
Cars in the left lane (next to center of round about) have absolute right of way, and never yield to cars entering.

Please use turn signals when exiting.

[Bill14564]

Take each picture, make copies and overlay with rotating each copy by a quarter rotation. Now you have multiple cars entering and exiting in multiple lanes, with multiple combinations of the "right way" to travel.

Look at traffic entering and exiting from all 4 feeder roads. Notice now those specified travel lines now cross between copies when you look at the whole picture of all traffic from all directions. There are 24 potential collisions by following the directions in those diagrams.
So yes, I disagree.

I propose something very simple.
The right (outside) lane of the round about must always exit at every side road. Car cannot continue going in circles using the right lane.
Cars in the left lane (next to center of round about) have absolute right of way, and never yield to cars entering.

Please use turn signals when exiting.

Five out of the six pictures have a Yield sign showing and the one that doesn't have the sign has text stating, "YIELD to all traffic in the roundabout," and, "DO NOT ENTER next to a vehicle in the roundabout." NONE of the 24 potential collisions exist if the driver entering the roundabout Yields to traffic in the roundabout.

The brochure is very clear. If portions of it are ignored, the problem is not with the brochure, the problem is with the person reading the brochure.

[Topspinmo]

UWe were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

Only crap shoot if you enter roundabout without yielding to traffic in both lanes of roundabout.

You didn’t yield to traffic in roundabout. I see this a lot, vehicles in right lane think they can enter roundabout when they’re no traffic in right lane of roundabout. You have or yield to both lanes in roundabout. It means approaching you entry coming around the corner. Another problem people don’t use there blinker light when existing roundabout.

[golfing eagles]

Take each picture, make copies and overlay with rotating each copy by a quarter rotation. Now you have multiple cars entering and exiting in multiple lanes, with multiple combinations of the "right way" to travel.

Look at traffic entering and exiting from all 4 feeder roads. Notice now those specified travel lines now cross between copies when you look at the whole picture of all traffic from all directions. There are 24 potential collisions by following the directions in those diagrams.
So yes, I disagree.

I propose something very simple.
The right (outside) lane of the round about must always exit at every side road. Car cannot continue going in circles using the right lane.
Cars in the left lane (next to center of round about) have absolute right of way, and never yield to cars entering.

Please use turn signals when exiting.

You may disagree, but you are absolutely wrong. The RBs work perfectly when drivers follow the rules. There is no crossing in front of or cutting off as long as no one:
a) follows the rule of which exit they can take from which lane and
b) More importantly, no one enters the RB with traffic coming IN EITHER LANE

[coffeebean]

Did you enter at the same time and from the same entrance? Or did you enter at the same time but he entered to your left?

If you both entered at 6, you have to exit at 3 or 12 and he has to exit at 12 or 9.

If the accident takes place at 3, it is his fault. If it takes place at 12 or 9, it is your fault.

If he entered at 9 and you entered at 6, he would have to be going fast or you would have to be going slow if you both reached 3 at the same time. Always be aware of other cars in the roundabout.

To the OP........NEVER drive next to anyone in the RAB. You never know what they are going to do. I vary my speed to never be next to anyone. I also NEVER enter a RAB at the same time as another vehicle. So far...........so good after several years of driving in these RABs.

[coffeebean]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

That is incorrect. When you plan to exit at the 3rd exit (AKA a Left turn), you must be in the inside lane. You also must enter in the inside lane if you plan to make a U Turn (AKA the 4th exit).

It is really not confusing at all. What is confusing is not knowing what other drivers are going to do. That is why I NEVER drive next to another vehicle in the RAB.

[Bogie Shooter]

A absolutely false. From reading the posts, many who read TOTV also don’t know how to drive in a roundabout!

Seems to be the same posters..

[golfing eagles]

Seems to be the same posters..

Slow learning curve????

[Laker14]

Seems to be the same posters..

You keep track of these things?

[Bogie Shooter]

You keep track of these things?

Naw, no need. One can almost predict who will post on any thread mentioning round-a-bouts.

[Randall55]

No one should have to yield in the roundabout.
That is the whole idea of them. Continuous flow.
If you have to yield, there are basically only two situations that are to blame.
1. You or the other vehicle, even both, are in the wrong lane.
2. Driver enters roundabout before both lanes to left are clear.
Speeding, changing lanes in roundabout could be added, but the two main reasons are those.
It is a very simple procedure if basic rule is followed.The idea is not continuous flow. The idea is no traffic light to sit at for several minutes. Instead of sitting at a red light, allowing other cars to cross your path, you YIELD. Whoever is in the round about before you has the right of way.

Sometimes, you can move through seamlessly. But, when a vehicle is in the left lane there is a possibility they will need to cross over your path to exit. You YIELD to them and allow them to do so.

[golfing eagles]

The idea is not continuous flow. The idea is no traffic light to sit at for several minutes. Instead of sitting at a red light, allowing other cars to cross your path, you YIELD. Whoever is in the round about before you has the right of way.

Sometimes, you can move through seamlessly. But, when a vehicle is in the left lane there is a possibility they will need to cross over your path to exit. You YIELD to them and allow them to do so.

Again, THERE SHOULDN'T BE IF PEOPLE FOLLOW THE RULES. For that to happen, EITHER
a) a driver who doesn't understand entered the RB when a vehicle was coming around in the inner lane, or
b) a driver, even more ignorant, entered with you and was proceeding to the 3rd exit in the outer lane while you were going to the 2nd exit

And btw, is there a substantial difference (not semantic) between NOT sitting at a light for 2 minutes and "continuous flow"???

[Two Bills]

The idea is not continuous flow. The idea is no traffic light to sit at for several minutes. Instead of sitting at a red light, allowing other cars to cross your path, you YIELD. Whoever is in the round about before you has the right of way.

Sometimes, you can move through seamlessly. But, when a vehicle is in the left lane there is a possibility they will need to cross over your path to exit. You YIELD to them and allow them to do so.

What I wrote was correct.

[Bill14564]

The idea is not continuous flow. The idea is no traffic light to sit at for several minutes. Instead of sitting at a red light, allowing other cars to cross your path, you YIELD. Whoever is in the round about before you has the right of way.

Sometimes, you can move through seamlessly. But, when a vehicle is in the left lane there is a possibility they will need to cross over your path to exit. You YIELD to them and allow them to do so.

Some/I would say that "no traffic light" and no red light is the same as "continuous flow."

If you yield to traffic already in the circle then the ONLY way the left lane will need to cross your path is if one of you attempts to exit inappropriately: either they turned at the first exit or you continued past the second. Of course you avoid an accident but you also recognize that the yield was only necessary because someone did the wrong thing.

[Randall55]

Again, THERE SHOULDN'T BE IF PEOPLE FOLLOW THE RULES. For that to happen, EITHER
a) a driver who doesn't understand entered the RB when a vehicle was coming around in the inner lane, or
b) a driver, even more ignorant, entered with you and was proceeding to the 3rd exit in the outer lane while you were going to the 2nd exit

And btw, is there a substantial difference (not semantic) between NOT sitting at a light for 2 minutes and "continuous flow"???Some drivers believe they can keep moving without worrying about who is in the roundabout. That is not correct.

If a vehicle is in the inner (left lane) before you enter, that vehicle has the right of way. You wait until it crosses your path before proceeding. You are required to yield.

If done correctly, it only takes a few seconds which would be continuous flow. If done incorrectly, the vehicle in the left lane has to drive around the circle AGAIN to exit. Or, two vehicles slam on their brakes because an entering driver did not YIELD. Which is not continuous flow.

[golfing eagles]

Some drivers believe they can keep moving without worrying about who is in the roundabout. That is not always the case.

If a vehicle is in the inner (left lane) before you enter, that vehicle has the right of way. You wait until it crosses your path before proceeding. Which only takes a few seconds.

There are some people who believe you do not yield AT ALL. That is incorrect. A vehicle in a left lane needs to cross over the right lane to exit. If it needs to cross your path, You allow that vehicle to do so.

If done correctly, it only takes a few seconds which would be continuous flow. If done incorrectly, the vehicle in the left lane has to drive around the circle AGAIN to exit. Or, two vehicles slam on their brakes because an entering driver did not YIELD. Which is not continuous flow.

Thanks for the clarification, you now make sense. I was hoping that everyone knows NOT TO ENTER until the RB is clear, so the entering vehicle has to yield and therefore the flow is not continuous. I love semantics. But is is closer to continuous than a 2 minute traffic light

[Randall55]

Thanks for the clarification, you now make sense. I was hoping that everyone knows NOT TO ENTER until the RB is clear, so the entering vehicle has to yield and therefore the flow is not continuous. I love semantics. But is is closer to continuous than a 2 minute traffic lightThis is why I IMAGINE I am at a red light when I approach a roundabout. You wait until the roundabout is clear, then you proceed.

I have seen far too many drivers approaching round abouts thinking they always have a green light to go. These people scare me and I immediately slow down. We all have been driving for decades. How do some not understand that at an intersection you must stop and yield?

Most traffic intersections have stop signs or red lights forcing a driver to stop. The rules do not change for roundabouts. Before you enter, you YIELD. In a roundabout, similar to a stop sign, it only takes a few seconds.

[VApeople]

As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

If he was already in the roundabout when you entered the roundabout, then you were at fault. When there is a car already in the roundabout near you, you must not enter.

Seems like a crap shoot.

Yeah, that is right.

I suggest you learn the rules for driving thru roundabouts and always have your hand on the horn. Honk if you think someone is breaking the rules and may endanger you.

[Gpsma]

Im not sure what I like better…another roundabout thread..or a really good dog poop thread

[golfing eagles]

Im not sure what I like better…another roundabout thread..or a really good dog poop thread

Pretty much a tie

[cjrjck]

Multiple lane roundabouts can be challenging. Despite what the armchair lawyers say, often when you enter the roundabout in the left lane destined for the second exit, a car will enter the right lane at the first exit either ignoring you in the other lane or entering just as you are passing and speed up to the point that as you ready to take the second exit in the left lane they are either next to you in the right lane or just behind you so close as to make a right turn dangerous. Do you have the right away? Most likely.

[Randall55]

Im not sure what I like better…another roundabout thread..or a really good dog poop threadMMPS are great threads too. Walk against traffic or with traffic? Do golf carts have the right of way or do the walkers? Should bicyclists honk to let walkers know they are behind them? Always interesting. And, ALWAYS many posts.

[Randall55]

Multiple lane roundabouts can be challenging. Despite what the armchair lawyers say, often when you enter the roundabout in the left lane destined for the second exit, a car will enter the right lane at the first exit either ignoring you in the other lane or entering just as you are passing and speed up to the point that as you ready to take the second exit in the left lane they are either next to you in the right lane or just behind you so close as to make a right turn dangerous. Do you have the right away? Most likely.I do not see it as arm chair lawyer. If you approach a roundabout and see a vehicle driving in the inside circle, COMMON SENSE dictates that vehicle must cross over the outside lane to exit. There is no other way for him to exit but to cross over your lane. This is when you yield.

You do not get into the roundabout and speed up because you feel waiting those few seconds to allow the car to cross your path is inconvenient. Same with Merge. You slow down to allow cars coming onto the highway to do so quickly and efficiently. You do not speed up when you see a Merge sign. If caught, the policeman will give you a failure to merge ticket. (My nephew has received several. He seems to believe he has the right of way and no one is going to tell him different)

[Garywt]

The right lane driver must get off turn 1 or 2 and the driver in the left lane CANNOT get off on the first turn can get off turn 2, 3 or 4. Everyone must stay in their own lane when leaving.

[Randall55]

The right lane driver must get off turn 1 or 2 and the driver in the left lane CANNOT get off on the first turn can get off turn 2, 3 or 4. Everyone must stay in their own lane when leaving.What you are saying is correct. However, a vehicle trying to enter must wait until the roundabout is clear. IMO, if two vehicles slam on their brakes, it happened because the vehicle entering did not wait until the vehicle in the inner circle made their exit. Exits must be allowed before entering.

[rsmurano]

It’s so easy to navigate a roundabout but there are so many bad drivers here in TV, I’m not surprised by all the accidents. Quite a few people’s replies here will show you they don’t know how to navigate a roundabout, and there is the same sign before each roundabout that shows exactly what each lane can do.
I wish we would have more cops at these roundabouts ticketing or even taking their drivers license away from people that can’t navigate one. I’ve called multiple companies telling them that their driver almost hit me in a roundabout by not following the law.
Me, I don’t care if you have your turn signal on or off, follow the rules. I’ve witnessed multiple people try to use their turn signal in the roundabout so they think they don’t have to follow the rules if their turn signals are on.
Simple rules:
Right lane driver in a roundabout has to exit the roundabout at either the 1st or 2nd exit. Period!
Left lane driver in a roundabout cannot take the 1st exit, can exit the 2nd, 3rd exits or go all the way around.
Also, the person going around the roundabout has the right of way of any cars coming into the roundabout so the car in the roundabout’s left lane can take the 2nd or 3rd exit. All cars entering the roundabout must yield to the car in the roundabout no matter which lane the car is using in the roundabout.

[Blackbird45]

I know this is a negative point of view, but whenever you find yourself next to a car in a roundabout you must assume they are a jerk.
I'm not saying they are, just remember the old Boy Scout moto; "Be prepared".

[Spikesheba13]

If I'm in the left lane and want to turn right I always have my right turn signal on most do not pay attention to your signal

[banjobob]

I always make I am not beside someone in a roundabout, and try to watch my outside mirrors.

[golfing eagles]

If I'm in the left lane and want to turn right I always have my right turn signal on most do not pay attention to your signal

I think part of the misunderstanding of many stems from the term "turn right" from the "left" lane. You are not turning at all, you are not crossing a lane, you are exiting from your own (inner) lane, as you should. Perhaps always using the terms "inner" and "outer" lanes will help educate those who don't know how to navigate a RB.

[Santiagogirl]

I don't mind the constant repeats of this particular thread, as people always seem to be at different points on their learning curve. Important to get in habit of looking at the sign when entering roundabouts, as there are occasionally exceptions to the 'rules' stated above. Example: Exiting (east) onto Paige Place from the El Camino Real/Morse Blvd/Paige Place traffic circle near Spanish Springs, there is only a single exit lane, which is for cars in the right lane. Vehicles traveling in the left lane may only exit onto Morse or El Camino (west). I have nearly been hit on several occasions while properly exiting onto Paige from the right lane by cars trying to exit from the left lane who expect me to yield. This happens particularly during snowbird season. I always stay alert for people making that mistake, and take a deep breath & count to 10 when they honk at me as if it were my error.

[bowlingal]

bsloan....it's a CIRCLE. people need to realize that if they miss their exit, JUST GO AROUND again!!

[golfing eagles]

I don't mind the constant repeats of this particular thread, as people always seem to be at different points on their learning curve. Important to get in habit of looking at the sign when entering roundabouts, as there are occasionally exceptions to the 'rules' stated above. Example: Exiting (east) onto Paige Place from the El Camino Real/Morse Blvd/Paige Place traffic circle near Spanish Springs, there is only a single exit lane, which is for cars in the right lane. Vehicles traveling in the left lane may only exit onto Morse or El Camino (west). I have nearly been hit on several occasions while properly exiting onto Paige from the right lane by cars trying to exit from the left lane who expect me to yield. This happens particularly during snowbird season. I always stay alert for people making that mistake, and take a deep breath & count to 10 when they honk at me as if it were my error.

Hence the self-preservation rule of never ride side by side in a RB. There are several RBs that have a one lane exit----Morse at Pinellas/Moyer eastbound comes to mind immediately. If you are aware of the issue, like you are at Paige, you stay in the outer lane. But for newbies.........

[thevillagernie]

1) Yield to approaching vehicles in both lanes of the roundabout;
2) Never drive next to another vehicle in the roundabout.
never, never, get beside anyone in a roundabout.

[kendi]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

If you’re taking the 3rd exit you need to be in the inside lane. Inside lane goes straight or left. Outside goes straight or right.

[Sandy and Ed]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.
Wrong. Check the roundabout signs. Third exit (9 o’clock) must be in inside (left) lane and you (traffic in circle) have right of way to exit the circle (carefully). There should be no one in the circle in the right lane to impede your own exit. Circle has right of way (unless you are in New Jersey : ). Period.

[golfing eagles]

never, never, get beside anyone in a roundabout.

As opposed to #2 in the post referenced. Interesting. Usually this occurs because someone fails to read previous posts. But I think this is a first---actually quoting the repetitive post. But, since it is good advice, I suppose it bears repeating.

Originally Posted by Davonu:
1) Yield to approaching vehicles in both lanes of the roundabout;
2) Never drive next to another vehicle in the roundabout.

[neilbcox]

Every roundabout has a lane assignment on a big green sign before you enter it. Also the roads are clearly marked on the asphalt as to what each lane can do!

Follow the green sign as to who has the right away. This danger really increases when snowbirds return!

FYI…There are no general roundabout rules…many are different in lane assignments!

[Indydealmaker]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

Obviously you need to be on constant lookout for the dummies because he shouldn't have been beside you. He should have been behind. You are not to enter a roundabout until any car to your left already in the circle has passed. It is like a 2 lane zipper. Also, this is much simpler if the speed limit is strictly adhered to.

[PhilG]

As you approach the potential turn, glance at the front right wheel of the guy to your left. Similarly, if wish to tuirn right from the left lane. glance at the front left wheel of the giy in the outside lane.

[MidWestIA]

yes I ONLY go in a round about when I am clear ahead of cars AND we have tons of tourists that are clueless about it ASSUME they will turn at the wrong time but don't be by anybody in there.

[PersonOfInterest]

The Villages' assumption that Retired people who would live in the Villages could figure out how to use a dual lane roundabout was perhaps a poor assumption. I would suggest that those who can't figure it out use 301 or Micro Racetrack Rd instead of going through the roundabouts, but sadly those who can't figure it out don't know that they can't figure it out. One hint pertaining to the OP's post, if you're in the right (outside) lane and you're passing the 2nd exit you've just screwed up. Smart option # 2, take your golf cart.

[MikeN]

It seems not everyone knows how to handle roundabouts. If you’re in a left left that is not the time to be making a right hand turn. TV gives instructions on how to drive a golf cart. Perhaps they should educate people on how to use lanes in a roundabout We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

[MandoMan]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks
If you are in the right lane but planning to continue around the roundabout and not turn right at once, you are supposed to yield the right of way to people turning right from the left hand lane (I’m assuming turning into two lanes, not one). That’s why there is a solid white line pointing you to the right. If you are in the right lane and there is a car just in front of you in the left lane, always assume that car might be turning right (legally) and be cautious. Similarly, if you are in the left lane wanting to turn right and there is a car in the right lane, be cautious and watch carefully. If I am taking the first right, I enter the roundabout from the right lane. If I am going straight on, I enter the roundabout from the inside lane but that means turning right from the left lane, doesn’t it? I plan ahead and switch lanes before I reach the roundabout. This is fast and easy, but it depends on people not driving with their minds on cruise-control.

[Chamo]

Why do we need 1000 people stating their opinion on a question that has been put on this site 1000 times SMH EVERYBODY NEEDS TO PUT THEIR OPINION IN

[Mikee1]

This question comes up almost weekly. The easiest way to figure out what to do is...
If you cross the dashed white line you must yield, just like on a highway. Some traffic circles have left lane right of way and some do not. Just look at the dashed white line, if you cross it you must yield. So yes, there are many times when the inside lane traffic has the right of way to the exit.

[mrf0151]

Bottom line for roundabouts, just like the posted signs in TV indicate is that right lane is for going straight or turning right out of the roundabout. The left lane is for going straight or turning left into the roundabout. It is that simple, PERIOD.

[nancymiller217@yahoo.com]

And one more thing….

NEVER CHANGE LANES IN A ROUNDABOUT. *

I have witnessed more than one driver approach a RAB in the right lane and immediately go to the left lane of the RAB, and change back to the right lane and exit—basically going straight through the RAB, like they are the only vehicle there.

Truly special people.

*exception—lane markings force you to. For example, Morse south at Rohan rec, if you are turning left to the rec center, the big yellow lines on the road make you change to the right lane after the 2nd exit. Then you can and should change lanes.

[DiandJay]

I believe the rules for correct use of round abouts was also provided in our welcome packet. Driving the posted speed helps enormously too. It gives you the ability to react to those who have not read the rules.
We lived in the UK for 10 years. Round a-bouts are very common there. Yet, we were still frustrated by confused drivers at times.

[mrf0151]

If you are in the right lane but planning to continue around the roundabout and not turn right at once, you are supposed to yield the right of way to people turning right from the left hand lane (I’m assuming turning into two lanes, not one). That’s why there is a solid white line pointing you to the right. If you are in the right lane and there is a car just in front of you in the left lane, always assume that car might be turning right (legally) and be cautious. Similarly, if you are in the left lane wanting to turn right and there is a car in the right lane, be cautious and watch carefully. If I am taking the first right, I enter the roundabout from the right lane. If I am going straight on, I enter the roundabout from the inside lane but that means turning right from the left lane, doesn’t it? I plan ahead and switch lanes before I reach the roundabout. This is fast and easy, but it depends on people not driving with their minds on cruise-control.

NOPE, Look at the TV sign and learn. https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=136becdeb70eba53JmltdHM9MTY5NzY3MzYwMCZpZ3VpZD0z NzYyYTEwZS0xNjQ1LTY3ZWItMGQ5YS1iMmE5MTc2OTY2ZTQmaW 5zaWQ9NTU5Nw&ptn=3&hsh=3&fclid=3762a10e-1645-67eb-0d9a-b2a9176966e4&u=a1L2ltYWdlcy9zZWFyY2g_cT10aGUgdmlsbGFnZXMgcm91bm RhYm91dCBzaWducyZGT1JNPUlRRlJCQSZpZD1EMkQxOEJBMjNC OENCNUExQTMwQjQ3Rjk4MzI1M0QxNjkyNkFDQTlC&ntb=1

[golfing eagles]

It seems not everyone knows how to handle roundabouts. If you’re in a left left that is not the time to be making a right hand turn. TV gives instructions on how to drive a golf cart. Perhaps they should educate people on how to use lanes in a roundabout

Yep, that post does prove that not everyone knows how to handle RBs. You are NOT making a right turn from the inner lane, you are exiting a RB in accordance with the rules. There have only been a million posts on how to do this.

[srswans]

As I recall we entered the circle at the same time.

If the two of you entered at the same time and you didn’t take the first or second exit, you are at fault - never turn left from right lane.

[golfing eagles]

If you are in the right lane but planning to continue around the roundabout and not turn right at once, you are supposed to yield the right of way to people turning right from the left hand lane (I’m assuming turning into two lanes, not one). That’s why there is a solid white line pointing you to the right. If you are in the right lane and there is a car just in front of you in the left lane, always assume that car might be turning right (legally) and be cautious. Similarly, if you are in the left lane wanting to turn right and there is a car in the right lane, be cautious and watch carefully. If I am taking the first right, I enter the roundabout from the right lane. If I am going straight on, I enter the roundabout from the inside lane but that means turning right from the left lane, doesn’t it? I plan ahead and switch lanes before I reach the roundabout. This is fast and easy, but it depends on people not driving with their minds on cruise-control.

No, it DOESN'T. When you enter a RB in the inner lane and are going to the 2nd or 3rd exit---you are doing just that---exiting, in accordance with the rules. You are not "turning right".

[srswans]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

No, never use outside lane for third exit.

This lack of understanding is why we have accidents and why we have these long threads.

[coffeebean]

it’s so easy to navigate a roundabout but there are so many bad drivers here in tv, i’m not surprised by all the accidents. Quite a few people’s replies here will show you they don’t know how to navigate a roundabout, and there is the same sign before each roundabout that shows exactly what each lane can do.
I wish we would have more cops at these roundabouts ticketing or even taking their drivers license away from people that can’t navigate one. I’ve called multiple companies telling them that their driver almost hit me in a roundabout by not following the law.
Me, i don’t care if you have your turn signal on or off, follow the rules. I’ve witnessed multiple people try to use their turn signal in the roundabout so they think they don’t have to follow the rules if their turn signals are on.
Simple rules:
Right lane driver in a roundabout has to exit the roundabout at either the 1st or 2nd exit. Period!
Left lane driver in a roundabout cannot take the 1st exit, can exit the 2nd, 3rd exits or go all the way around.
Also, the person going around the roundabout has the right of way of any cars coming into the roundabout so the car in the roundabout’s left lane can take the 2nd or 3rd exit. All cars entering the roundabout must yield to the car in the roundabout no matter which lane the car is using in the roundabout.
yup!

[coffeebean]

bsloan....it's a CIRCLE. people need to realize that if they miss their exit, JUST GO AROUND again!!

Weeeeeeeeeee!!!!

[mminternet]

I honestly wish the roundabouts were set up where you could ONLY exit the roundabout from the outside lane. Then no one would be crossing/cutting in front of you. There is time to move from the inside lane to the outside if you want to exit.

[ucrider]

There is roundabout guidance provided in the Lifestyle handout. The main guideline is to use blinkers.

[lawgolfer]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

No! If you use the right (the No.2 or outside) lane intending to leave the roundabout at the 3rd exit, you are likely to cause a collision at the 2nd exit with a car in the left (No.1 or inside)lane.

You should use the right (No.2 or outside)lane when you will leave the roundabout at the 1st or 2nd exit. NEVER use that lane when you plan to leave at the 3rd exit.

If you use the left (the No. 1 or inside)lane NEVER leave at the 1st exit, only at the 2nd or 3rd.

The greatest danger in roundabouts is when two cars drive side-by-side in the roundabout or when one car, in either lane, overtakes or passes a car in the other lane. Too many drivers seem to think that roundabouts are the place to show off their driving skills or the great way their vehicle handles.

[PurePeach]

1) Yield to approaching vehicles in both lanes of the roundabout;
2) Never drive next to another vehicle in the roundabout.

And ALWAYS use your blinker (a.k.a. turn signal)!

[lawgolfer]

I honestly wish the roundabouts were set up where you could ONLY exit the roundabout from the outside lane. Then no one would be crossing/cutting in front of you. There is time to move from the inside lane to the outside if you want to exit.
Wrong wish!

Your wish is feasible only if there is one lane in the roundabout. That would cause bottlenecks when two lanes are reduced to one, and defeat the purpose of roundabouts.

With two lanes in the roundabout, drivers in the left (No. 1or inside) lane who are trying to exit
would be changing lanes within the roundabout under your plan. Changing lanes within a roundabout is a serious No-No and is a quick way to cause a collision.

Some people in the right (No. 2 or outside)lane believe that drivers in the left (No. 1 or inside)lane who take their 2nd or 3rd exit are"cutting" them off. Not so. The drivers intending to leave the roundabout at their 2nd or 3rd exit are supposed to be in the left (No.1 or inside)lane and drivers in the right (No.2 or outside) lane are supposed to allow them to do so.

[Steve]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.

Look at the signs as you enter the roundabout. The right lane at entry has two options--take the first exit or continue through the roundabout. The left lane at entry also has two options--continue through the roundabout or proceed to the third exit. If you are going to exit at the third exit it would behoove you to move into the right lane, if possible, before exiting. Otherwise, be aware of other cars in the roundabout and adjust your speed accordingly. If you have to miss your exit, so be it. Go around one more time.

[bragones]

It's just like a 4 way intersection. The right lane can turn right or go straight. The left lane can go straight or turn left.


Left lane can go right(exit) if there's 2 lanes and a dashed line. I wouldn't do it but lots of people legaly do it and they do it without looking to see if a vehicle is on their right.

[Bill14564]

Look at the signs as you enter the roundabout. The right lane at entry has two options--take the first exit or continue through the roundabout. The left lane at entry also has two options--continue through the roundabout or proceed to the third exit. If you are going to exit at the third exit it would behoove you to move into the right lane, if possible, before exiting. Otherwise, be aware of other cars in the roundabout and adjust your speed accordingly. If you have to miss your exit, so be it. Go around one more time.

Left lane can go right if there's a dashed line. I wouldn't do it but lots of people do and they do it without looking to see if a vehicle is on their right.

How can we have 90 posts on the umpteenth thread on this topic and people STILL post incorrect information?

- DO NOT CHANGE LANES IN THE ROUNDABOUT. At the 2nd or 3rd exit the inside/left lane exits to the left lane, no lane changes required

- THE INSIDE/LEFT LANE DOES NOT GO RIGHT / EXIT AT THE FIRST EXIT. Very simple, if you enter the roundabout in the left lane and therefore are in the inside lane of the circle you DO NOT exit at the first exit.

[ron32162]

it would have been your fault

[Rainger99]

And away we go……..
Prediction 65 posts!

I'll raise, and go all in.

Good call! Should hit 100 by noon!

[Cobrasally]

Actually, it's quite simple: you NEVER turn left from a right lane. Ever notice those white arrows painted in the lanes? Right hand lane has single, straight ahead arrow indicating traffic to exit, while the left lane has a double headed arrow, indicating traffic may continue around OR exit the roundabout.

You were in the wrong, and would have been at fault had you hit the other vehicle.

[jlaurieb]

Every roundabout has a sign from either Morris or Buena Vista indicating the access route for each vehicle.

The outer lane of the roundabout is only meant as an exit lane once inside the circle it is not a left-turning lane.

The outer lane is only a straight through lane or a right turn lane. The inner lane can go straight through or turn left.

This is confusing for quite a few people, because they see a broken white line, but that line is meant for people entering from the right to cross into the traffic circle.

I am not certain whether the neighborhood roads intersecting the main roads (Morse and Buena Vista) have the same signage, but it would be helpful. It would also be helpful if people understood them.

It seems that every Villager should have a course in how to navigate roundabouts before they are handed the keys to their property.

[jimmy o]

I always thought the that the rule of thumb is that when you're approaching a roundabout and you plan to exit from the 1st or 3rd (right or left exits) of the roundabout, you should always be in the outside lane well before entering the roundabout.
No. Number one rule of roundabouts”You never change lanes in Roundabout”. If you enter from left lane you exit at 12 or 9 from left lane.

[pauld315]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

You would be in the wronglane if that was to happen. Think about what lanes you would be in when entering a normal 4 way intersection. If you want to turn right you would be in the right hand lane. If you wanted to go straight, you would be in either lane and if you want to turn left or do a u turn you would be in the left lane. The same applies to a 2 lane roundabout. Once you enter the roundabout do not change lanes until yoiu are out of the roundabout. Very simple

[Larchap49]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

If you are in the rt lane you are supposed to exit on the 1st or 2nd exit NOT continue to the 3rd exit. That is clearly stated on the signs as you are entering the roundabout. A rules to live by is do not drive in a roundabout with another car next to you

[kayak]

Traffic entering a roundabout must yield to both lanes of traffic. It is not ok to squeeze into the right lane if there is a car in the left lane. That would be failure to yield and you could be cited.

Yes, the left is an exit lane.
No, you cannot get in the right lane and go around and around and around.

[bsloan1960]

The RBs work perfectly when drivers follow the rules.

Which is exactly why I asked if it was a Crap Shoot. You assessment is of course correct- in theory. The problems occur when real life collides with theory.

When "drivers follow the rules" you don't have tailgaters- I've never seen so many in my life as I have here. You don't have people trying to be the 2nd car through a gate as it comes back down and gets snapped off. And you don't have drivers intentionally exit the RBs by cutting in front of other drivers.

But in the real day-to-day world you do have these things and the best you can do is guard yourself against the damages these other people do... and they will KEEP doing them- no amount of instruction or pep talks are going to stop morons from being morons.

[mickey100]

Every roundabout has a sign from either Morris or Buena Vista indicating the access route for each vehicle.

The outer lane of the roundabout is only meant as an exit lane once inside the circle it is not a left-turning lane.

The outer lane is only a straight through lane or a right turn lane. The inner lane can go straight through or turn left.

This is confusing for quite a few people, because they see a broken white line, but that line is meant for people entering from the right to cross into the traffic circle.

I am not certain whether the neighborhood roads intersecting the main roads (Morse and Buena Vista) have the same signage, but it would be helpful. It would also be helpful if people understood them.

It seems that every Villager should have a course in how to navigate roundabouts before they are handed the keys to their property.

I agree. It's like any other traffic control convention. If everyone ignored stop signs, they wouldn't work properly. If people don't drive properly in roundabouts, they don't function as they should.

The maneuver is the same as at a regular intersection. At a regular 2 lane intersection you can either go straight or turn left from the left lane. And you can go straight or turn right from the right lane. It's exactly the same for a roundabout. It would be nice if local law enforcement actually did some enforcement at roundabouts. Station a car up at Camino Real and Buena Vista and you could pull over about 20 people per hour that drive incorrectly through that roundabout. People need to be reminded that if they don't play by the rules in roundabouts they are creating a hazard and ruining it for everyone.

[DebeeDoo]

[QUOTE=bsloan1960;2266095]”We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about.”

Soooooo, there’s a sign at the entrance of each roundabout - drivers should always check it (but apparently rarely do.). What you were attempting to do, essentially, was to make a left hand turn from the right lane (think about if you were on a four lane street and at a stop sign. You would not turn left from the right lane.) If you planned in advance which way you planned to go, then checked the signs, you would have been in the correct lane (left) and the near-accident would have been avoided. As others have noted, though, it’s really best not to be close to another vehicle in the roundabouts since it seems that most drivers don’t know how they work, and pay no attention to the signs, so you always have to expect someone will turn in front of you

[Marathon Man]

For those of you who think that you should change lanes while in the roundabout, please indicate where that is shown in this information.

https://www.districtgov.org/community/Roundabout-02-08-12.pdf

[flsteve]

Yes, it's true. This ground has been covered many times, but every time it comes up it becomes clear that too many people misunderstand the rules, so it's worth the time and trouble to try to educate folks in this regard.

The fender you save may be your own.

I DO like my fenders, but I also like my gibsons. :jester:

[TeresaE]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.



This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

Think of it this way. If you were at a typical intersection on a four lane road. Would you expect the car on your left to turn right in front of you? No

When the car in the left lane turned in front of you to exit when in a roundabout, it turned Right from the left lane in front of you.

Too many people here just don’t know how to drive.

[golfing eagles]

Think of it this way. If you were at a typical intersection on a four lane road. Would you expect the car on your left to turn right in front of you? No

When the car in the left lane turned in front of you to exit when in a roundabout, it turned Right from the left lane in front of you.

Too many people here just don’t know how to drive.

WRONG!. Some people just don't get it. The person who has gone 180 degrees through the RB to the 2nd exit is NOT TURNING RIGHT. He is exiting in accordance with the rules. PERIOD. People should stop using the terms right and left lane and instead use inner and outer lanes. This might help a few understand better. As that person exits from the inner lane, there should NOT BE ANYONE to his right. If there is, they either illegally entered the RB from his 1st exit when he was coming around in the inner lane or entered with the inner lane car and are illegally going to the third exit in the outer lane. C'mon, this is not rocket science.

[D.Bolen]

Back to the original post, this same scenario happened to us - we were in the right lane northbound on Morse and a driver in the left lane of the circle assumed it was correct protocol to cut to the right lane in front of us to exit. Images on the signs posted clearly indicate that both left and right lanes continue through the roundabout to Morse, with the option of someone in the right lane to exit to another village. In such a case it seems like a no-brainer that if you're in the left lane and want to exit, you must wait for a clear opportunity to get into the right lane and exit from the right-hand lane (unless that right-lane is ending and depicted as veering off to the exit ) or make another go-around. NOT ok to to cut in front of the driver next to you in the right-hand lane to fly over to that exit. However, a driver did that to our car - sped up in the left lane and with no clearance, tried to cut in front of us to jet over to the exit at the last minute (we had no idea someone was trying to pass from the left), and then proclaimed that WE did not understand the concept of driving in roundabouts.

[Bill14564]

Back to the original post, this same scenario happened to us - we were in the right lane northbound on Morse and a driver in the left lane of the circle assumed it was correct protocol to cut to the right lane in front of us to exit. Images on the signs posted clearly indicate that both left and right lanes continue through the roundabout to Morse, with the option of someone in the right lane to exit to another village. In such a case it seems like a no-brainer that if you're in the left lane and want to exit, you must wait for a clear opportunity to get into the right lane and exit from the right-hand lane (unless that right-lane is ending and depicted as veering off to the exit ) or make another go-around. NOT ok to to cut in front of the driver next to you in the right-hand lane to fly over to that exit. However, a driver did that to our car and proclaimed that WE did not understand the concept of driving in roundabouts.

Did the driver in the left lane enter the RB with you (he was alongside you on Morse going north) or was he already in the RB when you entered it? If the former then he was clearly wrong but if the latter then you were wrong.

[Rainger99]

Back to the original post, this same scenario happened to us - we were in the right lane northbound on Morse and a driver in the left lane of the circle assumed it was correct protocol to cut to the right lane in front of us to exit. Images on the signs posted clearly indicate that both left and right lanes continue through the roundabout to Morse, with the option of someone in the right lane to exit to another village. In such a case it seems like a no-brainer that if you're in the left lane and want to exit, you must wait for a clear opportunity to get into the right lane and exit from the right-hand lane (unless that right-lane is ending and depicted as veering off to the exit ) or make another go-around. NOT ok to to cut in front of the driver next to you in the right-hand lane to fly over to that exit. However, a driver did that to our car - sped up in the left lane and with no clearance, tried to cut in front of us to jet over to the exit at the last minute (we had no idea someone was trying to pass from the left), and then proclaimed that WE did not understand the concept of driving in roundabouts.

Where did the other driver enter the roundabout? If he entered from the same lane as you did (6), he was wrong since 6 can't exit at 3. If he entered at 9 or 12, he was correct.

[golfing eagles]

Back to the original post, this same scenario happened to us - we were in the right lane northbound on Morse and a driver in the left lane of the circle assumed it was correct protocol to cut to the right lane in front of us to exit. Images on the signs posted clearly indicate that both left and right lanes continue through the roundabout to Morse, with the option of someone in the right lane to exit to another village. In such a case it seems like a no-brainer that if you're in the left lane and want to exit, you must wait for a clear opportunity to get into the right lane and exit from the right-hand lane (unless that right-lane is ending and depicted as veering off to the exit ) or make another go-around. NOT ok to to cut in front of the driver next to you in the right-hand lane to fly over to that exit. However, a driver did that to our car - sped up in the left lane and with no clearance, tried to cut in front of us to jet over to the exit at the last minute (we had no idea someone was trying to pass from the left), and then proclaimed that WE did not understand the concept of driving in roundabouts.

Wow---it just continues. READ post #106 just above this one

[Randall55]

Back to the original post, this same scenario happened to us - we were in the right lane northbound on Morse and a driver in the left lane of the circle assumed it was correct protocol to cut to the right lane in front of us to exit. Images on the signs posted clearly indicate that both left and right lanes continue through the roundabout to Morse, with the option of someone in the right lane to exit to another village. In such a case it seems like a no-brainer that if you're in the left lane and want to exit, you must wait for a clear opportunity to get into the right lane and exit from the right-hand lane (unless that right-lane is ending and depicted as veering off to the exit ) or make another go-around. NOT ok to to cut in front of the driver next to you in the right-hand lane to fly over to that exit. However, a driver did that to our car - sped up in the left lane and with no clearance, tried to cut in front of us to jet over to the exit at the last minute (we had no idea someone was trying to pass from the left), and then proclaimed that WE did not understand the concept of driving in roundabouts. Vehicles in the inner circle ARE NOT changing lanes. They are EXITING. And, NO! They do not keep driving in the inner circle and wait until it is safe to exit. C'mon! You expect someone to stay cornered in an inside circle, driving round and round, until you pass? YIELD before you enter a circle. That is the rule.

When vehicles are in the inner circle there is no way for them to get out unless they cross over the outer circle. (Think about it! Like someone said, it's not rocket science.) The driver who explained that you do not know the rules of a roundabout was correct. You do not! You must wait until a vehicle in the inner circle makes an exit before you enter. Otherwise, the two cars are going to hit or almost hit each other. This is what happened in your scenario. You did not wait.

[ehonour]

All this writing. All these opinions. The Florida Driver Handbook makes it quite simple:

"Roundabouts are circular intersections with no traffic signal which improve traffic flow and reduce traffic crashes. Roundabouts slow vehicle speed, give drivers more time to judge and react to other vehicles or pedestrians. Drivers entering the roundabout must yield to traffic already in the circle and are directed in one-way, counterclockwise direction. For multi-lane roundabouts, stay in the left lane to turn left and the right lane to turn right, and all lanes to go through, unless otherwise directed by signs or pavement markings. Stay in your lane within the roundabout and use your right turn signal to indicate your intention to exit. Prior to entering or exiting the roundabout, drivers must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalks. Bicyclists may take the lane in the roundabout, or use the sidewalk."

It also has a simple diagram at Florida Driver Handbook | Roundabouts (https://www.lowestpricetrafficschool.com/handbooks/driver/en/5/17).

[msmr23@gmail.com]

As I recall we entered the circle at the same time.

Watch the lane markers. The inside lane usually exits, the outside lane has a hash line, meaning you have to yield to the inside guy crossing in front of you.

[Topspinmo]

Think of it this way. If you were at a typical intersection on a four lane road. Would you expect the car on your left to turn right in front of you? No

When the car in the left lane turned in front of you to exit when in a roundabout, it turned Right from the left lane in front of you.

Too many people here just don’t know how to drive.


Not even close when compared to roundabout. Left lane exiting at second exit is STRAIGHT through, the vehicle In right lane has two options, first exit or second exit period. Now if you don’t yield to traffic in the roundabout or go around to third exit it’s wrong. Several people have got hit going to 3rd exit in roundabout in right lane or didn’t yield to traffic in roundabout. They got the ticket.

[Topspinmo]

I am amazed how many people don’t know rules of roundabouts. I am surprised there not accident every hour is all roundabouts. Maybe that’s why I hear all the horns going off?

[jjombrello]

All one has to do is open the phone book and find the instructions for navigating roundabouts correctly. It is well detailed. Instruction brochures can also be obtained from the sheriff's office or annexes.

[Acordionist]

I have recently taken a course of defencing driving and I posed the same question, the answer being: Stay on the outer lane if you are exiting on the first or second exit and enter on the inner lane if you are exiting on the third exit. I both cases watch out for cars close to you on the other lane

[Randall55]

I have recently taken a course of defencing driving and I posed the same question, the answer being: Stay on the outer lane if you are exiting on the first or second exit and enter on the inner lane if you are exiting on the third exit. I both cases watch out for cars close to you on the other laneI don't know what driving class you took. There should be no cars close to you in another lane unless both vehicles are going straight thru. In that scenario, the vehicle on your left would have been beside you before reaching the roundabout.

Every car is not driving straight thru. Some may want to make a u-turn, some may want to take a side exit. You MUST allow those cars to take their exit or do a u-turn if they are in the roundabout when you approach. When a vehicle is in a roundabout before you, they have the right of way.

Think about it: When you are at a red light, cars who have a green light cross over the intersection or make u turns. You cannot go until your light turns green. If you go, you will strike another vehicle.

Same with roundabouts. If you enter before a person in the inner circle exits or makes a turn, you are going to strike each other.

An entering vehicle must wait until the roundabout is clear.

[Bogie Shooter]

And away we go……..:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:
Prediction 65 posts!

I'll raise, and go all in.

114 and counting……..
The first 25 posts state an opinion, the next 25 contradict the first 25, the third 25 contradicts the first 50 and so on. Reminds me of a Laurel & Hardy skit! Who is on first?
And someone….anyone is to learn from this thread?
Oh, and BTW stop letting your dog poop on my lawn.:wave::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Watch the lane markers. The inside lane usually exits, the outside lane has a hash line, meaning you have to yield to the inside guy crossing in front of you.

That makes even less sense than the other posters who don't know how to navigate a RB.
Please don't come anywhere near me in one :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[nn0wheremann]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks
1)Any vehicle in the roundabout before you are has right of way, to go left, right, or straight ahead, from any lane.
2)Never pass or overtake a vehicle in a roundabout (see rule 1 for reason why)
3)Assume all other drivers are demented homicidal lunatics, and drive defensively.

[BostonRich]

Real simple. Vehicle on your left always has the right of way. Expect them to exit at anytime and give them space to do it. If you hit them you would be at fault.

[DDToto41]

If you look at the white lines in the round-abouts, the right lane will have a solid white line leading to a dotted line going into the double lane gate entrance. The dotted line means the car in the left lane has the right of way, because you are changing lanes by going straight. Those lanes are only at exits that have double lanes. Make sure you are in front of the car in the left lane when you cross over the dotted line and have your turn signal on. The best thing to do is if you are going straight is to drive in the left lane.

[Rainger99]

Real simple. Vehicle on your left always has the right of way. Expect them to exit at anytime and give them space to do it. If you hit them you would be at fault.

Not if both cars enter at the same time from 6. The car to your left is not supposed to exit at 3. He can exit at 12, 9, and 6 (if making a U turn).

[Redsmom]

Simply expect the vehicle in the inside lane to exit (cross in front of you in the outside lane) at any point. Therefore, never ride beside a vehicle on the inside lane. Stagger your car.

[Driller703]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks
I use my right blinker to let people know I’m turning right, but I also make sure that I am either well forward of, or to the rear of anyone to my right. If in doubt, I go around again. The problem usually stems from someone entering immediately before my right exit. The blinker always seems to delay their entry.

[lawgolfer]

1)Any vehicle in the roundabout before you are has right of way, to go left, right, or straight ahead, from any lane.
2)Never pass or overtake a vehicle in a roundabout (see rule 1 for reason why)
3)Assume all other drivers are demented homicidal lunatics, and drive defensively.

No. 1 is completely wrong. A driver in the inside, No. 1 lane, is NOT allowed to turn out of the roundabout at his first exit. A driver in the inside, No. 1 lane can only turn out of the roundabout at his 2nd or 3rd exit.

No.'s 2 and 3 are advice to live by.

[Two Bills]

The whole thread is absolutely hilarious!
So far 297 different ways to navigate a roundabout.
Still waiting for the first, " I find it easier to go round clockwise!"

[Randall55]

bsloan....it's a CIRCLE. people need to realize that if they miss their exit, JUST GO AROUND again!!Even though you can, you are not supposed to drive around the circle. It can cause accidents.

Before coming to a roundabout, you need to get into the correct lane. Just like when you are approaching any intersection.

If you want to take the right side street exit, you must be in the right lane.

If you want to take the left side exit or make a u turn, you must be in the left lane.

If you are in the correct lane before approaching the roundabout, there is no need to drive in circles. If you are driving in circles, you run the risk of being hit.

[asianthree]

The whole thread is absolutely hilarious!
So far 297 different ways to navigate a roundabout.
Still waiting for the first, " I find it easier to go round clockwise!"

That happens more than you think, we see it once a week. Reason, why would I go all the way around when I can just turn left quicker.:girlneener:

[Randall55]

That happens more than you think, we see it once a week. Reason, why would I go all the way around when I can just turn left quicker.:girlneener:I have not seen anyone driving clockwise in the roundabouts. Thanks to you, I will expect it!

Is it really that much shorter than doing it correctly? I really don't see the point.

[Sandy and Ed]

No. 1 is completely wrong. A driver in the inside, No. 1 lane, is NOT allowed to turn out of the roundabout at his first exit. A driver in the inside, No. 1 lane can only turn out of the roundabout at his 2nd or 3rd exit.

No.'s 2 and 3 are advice to live by.
Believe that was meant to be a defense strategy: assume the other guy feels entitled to take the right of way and “don’t try to stop me!!”

[midiwiz]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

The rule I use is Inside lane - be in front of the next car outside lane - be behind the next car....works like a charm

[Maker]

You may disagree, but you are absolutely wrong. The RBs work perfectly when drivers follow the rules. There is no crossing in front of or cutting off as long as no one:
a) follows the rule of which exit they can take from which lane and
b) More importantly, no one enters the RB with traffic coming IN EITHER LANE


Sorry, but consider ALL traffic and then discover the problem with the driving diagrams and the faulty advice and criticism G.E. gives.

Let me demonstrate how cars crash.

Let's start with no other vehicles anywhere except for 2 cars arriving at a RAB. Each one wants to travel half way through the RAB and exit. Red car comes in at 6:00 and exits at 12:00. Blue car comes in at 3:00 and exits at 9:00.

Red car is in the left lane and they are the first car to enter RAB, and goes into the inner lane of the RAB. Starts going around. (driving diagrams show driving line allowing a "straight through" route)
Blue car arrives next, and sees red car, and waits until red car is passing. Blue enters the outer lane of the RAB. (driving diagrams show driving line allowing a "straight through" route)

At 12:00 spot, red car attempts to exit. Directly in front of path of blue car. Crash happens.

Both cars are following the routes shown on published diagrams for lane use.
Cars entered when lanes were 100% clear.
Neither car is next to each other.
Neither crossed any white lines.
Both cars followed every sign diagram.
Both cars followed every lane marking arrows.

Yet, they crash.
Those diagrams fail to account for traffic entering and exiting from all 4 roads. Blindly assuming that following those travel paths is foolish. That is the problem most people fail to comprehend.
This example is for just two cars. Expand that to a lot of cars, each person following their own version of what to do.

So never be next to another car. Always expect them to turn in front of your path and leave a lot of space to stop.
Oddly, that effectively reduces lane usage to one lane. Exactly the same thing I said by mandating outside lane must exit at the next road after they enter - no going to the second road. Only one lane is allowed to go past side roads. By forcing one lane, crash potentials are drastically reduced. Since the "expert" advice spaces cars into the equivalent of one lane, it's not going to slow anything down.

[golfing eagles]

Sorry, but consider ALL traffic and then discover the problem with the driving diagrams and the faulty advice and criticism G.E. gives.

Let me demonstrate how cars crash.

Let's start with no other vehicles anywhere except for 2 cars arriving at a RAB. Each one wants to travel half way through the RAB and exit. Red car comes in at 6:00 and exits at 12:00. Blue car comes in at 3:00 and exits at 9:00.

Red car is in the left lane and they are the first car to enter RAB, and goes into the inner lane of the RAB. Starts going around. (driving diagrams show driving line allowing a "straight through" route)
Blue car arrives next, and sees red car, and waits until red car is passing. Blue enters the outer lane of the RAB. (driving diagrams show driving line allowing a "straight through" route)

At 12:00 spot, red car attempts to exit. Directly in front of path of blue car. Crash happens.

Both cars are following the routes shown on published diagrams for lane use.
Cars entered when lanes were 100% clear.
Neither car is next to each other.
Neither crossed any white lines.
Both cars followed every sign diagram.
Both cars followed every lane marking arrows.

Yet, they crash.
Those diagrams fail to account for traffic entering and exiting from all 4 roads. Blindly assuming that following those travel paths is foolish. That is the problem most people fail to comprehend.
This example is for just two cars. Expand that to a lot of cars, each person following their own version of what to do.

So never be next to another car. Always expect them to turn in front of your path and leave a lot of space to stop.
Oddly, that effectively reduces lane usage to one lane. Exactly the same thing I said by mandating outside lane must exit at the next road after they enter - no going to the second road. Only one lane is allowed to go past side roads. By forcing one lane, crash potentials are drastically reduced. Since the "expert" advice spaces cars into the equivalent of one lane, it's not going to slow anything down.

And once again, that is WRONG!!!! My advice is NOT faulty and my criticism of bad drivers is valid. Once again, this thread demonstrates that probably 1/2 of the drivers are clueless as to the proper method of navigating a RB, the post I'm responding to is a perfect example.

In the scenario he describes, the only way a crash happens at 12:00 is if the car entering the RB at 3:00 does not allow the car in the inner lane to pass far enough ahead, or enters and speeds around faster than the car in the inner lane. The fault is entirely upon the driver entering the RB at 3:00, NOT the design of the RB and NOT the car in the inner lane. Once again, this is not rocket science

[Topspinmo]

The whole thread is absolutely hilarious!
So far 297 different ways to navigate a roundabout.
Still waiting for the first, " I find it easier to go round clockwise!"

And 285 ways are wrong. :22yikes:

[Bill14564]

And once again, that is WRONG!!!! My advice is NOT faulty and my criticism of bad drivers is valid. Once again, this thread demonstrates that probably 1/2 of the drivers are clueless as to the proper method of navigating a RB, the post I'm responding to is a perfect example.

In the scenario he describes, the only way a crash happens at 12:00 is if the car entering the RB at 3:00 does not allow the car in the inner lane to pass far enough ahead, or enters and speeds around faster than the car in the inner lane. The fault is entirely upon the driver entering the RB at 3:00, NOT the design of the RB and NOT the car in the inner lane. Once again, this is not rocket science

Exactly.

[Topspinmo]

114 and counting……..
The first 25 posts state an opinion, the next 25 contradict the first 25, the third 25 contradicts the first 50 and so on. Reminds me of a Laurel & Hardy skit! Who is on first?
And someone….anyone is to learn from this thread?
Oh, and BTW stop letting your dog poop on my lawn.:wave::1rotfl:


You’re just adding to count. :pepper2:

[golfing eagles]

114 and counting……..
The first 25 posts state an opinion, the next 25 contradict the first 25, the third 25 contradicts the first 50 and so on. Reminds me of a Laurel & Hardy skit! Who is on first?
And someone….anyone is to learn from this thread?
Oh, and BTW stop letting your dog poop on my lawn.:wave::1rotfl:

Your point is correct, your comedians, not so much-----Abbott and Costello

[Bill14564]

1)Any vehicle in the roundabout before you are has right of way, to go left, right, or straight ahead, from any lane.
2)Never pass or overtake a vehicle in a roundabout (see rule 1 for reason why)
3)Assume all other drivers are demented homicidal lunatics, and drive defensively.

No. 1 is completely wrong. A driver in the inside, No. 1 lane, is NOT allowed to turn out of the roundabout at his first exit. A driver in the inside, No. 1 lane can only turn out of the roundabout at his 2nd or 3rd exit.

No.'s 2 and 3 are advice to live by.

No. 1 is completely RIGHT.

While a car in the left lane cannot leave at his first exit, you have no idea where the car entered the RB or what his first exit was. All you know is there is a car in the RB and it has the right of way to go left, straight, or right.

If two cars are traveling side by side but one reaches the RB a half second before the other, that is NOT what No. 1 is referring to. Those two cars entered at the same time, the half second faster car was not in the RB before you.

If you are the only car traveling towards a RB and you see a car already in the RB when you reach it, that car has the right of way and you must yield. If you cannot enter the RB before that car reaches you then you must wait for it to pass.

If that car happens to be in the inner/left lane of the RB it can exit towards you, it can continue straight and exit at what would be your first exit, or it can continue around to what you would call the second exit.

[golfing eagles]

No. 1 is completely RIGHT.

While a car in the left lane cannot leave at his first exit, you have no idea where the car entered the RB or what his first exit was. All you know is there is a car in the RB and it has the right of way to go left, straight, or right.

If two cars are traveling side by side but one reaches the RB a half second before the other, that is NOT what No. 1 is referring to. Those two cars entered at the same time, the half second faster car was not in the RB before you.

If you are the only car traveling towards a RB and you see a car already in the RB when you reach it, that car has the right of way and you must yield. If you cannot enter the RB before that car reaches you then you must wait for it to pass.

If that car happens to be in the inner/left lane of the RB it can exit towards you, it can continue straight and exit at what would be your first exit, or it can continue around to what you would call the second exit.

You are 100% correct. Now let's sit back and watch about 1/2 of the subsequent posters make a fool of themselves by contradicting that.

[Raywatkins]

It’s possible you were in the wrong lane.
The Florida Drivers Handbook clearly shows with diagrams the lanes you should use and when.
It’s also possible that the other driver entered the roundabout too early. Again set out in the handbook.
Unless you were going straight over/thru the roundabout you should have been in the left lane.
I leave you to decide if that’s smart or safe.
Personally, seen too many accidents because people get this wrong.

[Rainger99]

The one thing I have learned is that a significant minority of drivers don’t know how to navigate roundabouts - and more importantly, they refuse to learn. There have been numerous explanations and several people have posted the Sumter County Board of County Commissioners guide to navigating roundabouts - and still a minority of people refuse to accept the rules.

After reading all of these posts, I recommend that everyone be extremely careful in roundabouts. At some point, you are going to be in a roundabout with someone who doesn’t know how to drive - but think they do!

[Debbraham]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

When people finally realize you don’t make a right hand turn from the left lane! Wouldn’t do that on a regular road so not sure why people think they can do that on a round about! If you can’t get over then go around again and get in the proper lane to turn! The same for a left hand turn…can’t turn left from a right hand lane!

[bsloan1960]

Im not sure what I like better…another roundabout thread..or a really good dog poop threadHuh? This is a Question and Answer format forum. I asked a question and 140 responses shows a wide interest in the subject matter. Why would you take time engage in this topic if it is of no interest to you- when your only motivation was to criticize everyone who considers it worthwhile?

[golfing eagles]

When people finally realize you don’t make a right hand turn from the left lane! Wouldn’t do that on a regular road so not sure why people think they can do that on a round about! If you can’t get over then go around again and get in the proper lane to turn! The same for a left hand turn…can’t turn left from a right hand lane!

So, Bill, it didn't take long---we have our first customer of the day.

So, when will people finally realize that you are not turning right from a left lane, you are exiting from an inner lane as per the correct procedure

Maybe the problem that people have trouble understanding is the analogy to a regular intersection explaining to enter from the left lane to go "left", the right lane to go "right" and either lane to go "straight". That's OK as a guide as to which lane to enter the RB, but the analogy ends there. The procedure for exiting a RB is different from a regular intersection, which has been pointed out 100x in this thread.

[Bogie Shooter]

Huh? This is a Question and Answer format forum. I asked a question and 140 responses shows a wide interest in the subject matter. Why would you take time engage in this topic if it is of no interest to you- when your only motivation was to criticize everyone who considers it worthwhile?

:1rotfl:

[Bogie Shooter]

You’re just adding to count. :pepper2:

But, but I didn’t include “never change lanes”, which is repeated over & over.:wave:

[Bogie Shooter]

Your point is correct, your comedians, not so much-----Abbott and Costello

:censored:, thanks for the correction.

[golfing eagles]

But, but I didn’t include “never change lanes”, which is repeated over & over.:wave:

And yet, as the previous posts show, there are those for which it will never sink in. The correct procedure has been laid out dozens of times in this thread alone, yet people go on posting wrong info. The lack of understanding of navigating the RBs is frightening just on the computer screen----the actions of these posters in the RBs are just plain dangerous

[mntlblok]

The ones who don’t know don’t read TOTV.

Looks like at least a couple of them are. :-)

[djlnc]

When people finally realize you don’t make a right hand turn from the left lane! Wouldn’t do that on a regular road so not sure why people think they can do that on a round about! If you can’t get over then go around again and get in the proper lane to turn! The same for a left hand turn…can’t turn left from a right hand lane!

I was going to stay out of this, but I can no longer restrain myself. Everything about this post is wrong. Please go to the first sticky on roundabouts and study the PDF there.

[Rainger99]

This thread is one reason why car insurance is so high in Florida!

[frayedends]

I was going to stay out of this, but I can no longer restrain myself. Everything about this post is wrong. Please go to the first sticky on roundabouts and study the PDF there.

That pdf helped me out. I've not been down there much yet, but I was a bit confused. The rotaries here in MA don't usually have lanes. It's a free for all. :D

But the pdf explains it perfectly. Plus it explains why the exit for going straight has arrows from both the left and right lane (IIRC) in some roundabouts.

[Randall55]

Sorry, but consider ALL traffic and then discover the problem with the driving diagrams and the faulty advice and criticism G.E. gives.

Let me demonstrate how cars crash.

Let's start with no other vehicles anywhere except for 2 cars arriving at a RAB. Each one wants to travel half way through the RAB and exit. Red car comes in at 6:00 and exits at 12:00. Blue car comes in at 3:00 and exits at 9:00.

Red car is in the left lane and they are the first car to enter RAB, and goes into the inner lane of the RAB. Starts going around. (driving diagrams show driving line allowing a "straight through" route)
Blue car arrives next, and sees red car, and waits until red car is passing. Blue enters the outer lane of the RAB. (driving diagrams show driving line allowing a "straight through" route)

At 12:00 spot, red car attempts to exit. Directly in front of path of blue car. Crash happens.

Both cars are following the routes shown on published diagrams for lane use.
Cars entered when lanes were 100% clear.
Neither car is next to each other.
Neither crossed any white lines.
Both cars followed every sign diagram.
Both cars followed every lane marking arrows.

Yet, they crash.
Those diagrams fail to account for traffic entering and exiting from all 4 roads. Blindly assuming that following those travel paths is foolish. That is the problem most people fail to comprehend.
This example is for just two cars. Expand that to a lot of cars, each person following their own version of what to do.

So never be next to another car. Always expect them to turn in front of your path and leave a lot of space to stop.
Oddly, that effectively reduces lane usage to one lane. Exactly the same thing I said by mandating outside lane must exit at the next road after they enter - no going to the second road. Only one lane is allowed to go past side roads. By forcing one lane, crash potentials are drastically reduced. Since the "expert" advice spaces cars into the equivalent of one lane, it's not going to slow anything down.Kinda obvious you do not understand the definition of yield.

Definition: Allow other road users to GO FIRST.

In your scenario, if you understand a driver must yield, an accident would not happen.The driver would know a car needs to cross their path and they would slow down allowing them to do so.

The roundabouts in the villages are small. The blue car should not have entered the roundabout until the red car exited. It only takes a few seconds to YIELD!

Rule of a roundabout: Yield to other vehicles. If you believe this is incorrect, Please post any literature or video that states you do not have to yield in a roundabout.

[asianthree]

I have not seen anyone driving clockwise in the roundabouts. Thanks to you, I will expect it!

Is it really that much shorter than doing it correctly? I really don't see the point.

One will see it further north, I find older drivers just find roundabout too confusing.

Yesterday while driving to VA clinic, watched someone make a left out of their street into the wrong lanes, instead of going down to roundabout.
Traveled wrong way, to light, then crossing over to correct lanes. Guesstimate that’s not the first time, won’t be the last.

[golfing eagles]

One will see it further north, I find older drivers just find roundabout too confusing.

Yesterday while driving to VA clinic, watched someone make a left out of their street into the wrong lanes, instead of going down to roundabout.
Traveled wrong way, to light, then crossing over to correct lanes. Guesstimate that’s not the first time, won’t be the last.

Got that one beat:

About 2 months ago my wife and I were driving north on BV to go to a show at Savannah. The car ahead of us took the Rainey Trail bypass, as did I. At the merge back into BV, the car ahead came to a dead stop even though no one was coming, waited about 5 seconds, then proceeded to make a 150-degree left turn into the northbound lanes against traffic.

That being said, based on previous posts on this thread, someone will post that is the correct procedure :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Doro22]

When we have visitors I always tell them not to stay next to another vehicle. A few years ago I was in the car with my daughter in law who was driving. So I tell her: “be careful in the circle, if you are right next to another vehicle they may cut you off to exit.” Well you guessed it…a truck towing a trailer cut off our car. Daughter in law says: “They can’t do that.” Ha…we just barely avoided getting hit.

[golfing eagles]

That’s exactly what I always say, Especially to visitors. A few years back I was in the car with my daughter in law who was driving. So I tell her: “be careful in the circle, if you are right next to another vehicle they may cut you off to exit.” Well you guessed it…a truck towing a trailer cut off our car. Daughter in law says: “They can’t do that.” Ha…we just barely avoided getting hit.

Of course, while it should be clear after 157 posts, apparently not. No one "cut you off" (unless the truck entered with you from the left lane and tried to take the first exit.) Otherwise, either you illegally entered the RB when he was coming around, or you were illegally trying to take the third exit in the outer lane. YOU can't do that.

[jimjamuser]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks
I look into my left rearview mirror and if I see some driver accelerating to get in front of me and exit - I simply hit the brakes and let them.

[golfing eagles]

I look into my left rearview mirror and if I see some driver accelerating to get in front of me and exit - I simply hit the brakes and let them.

Good idea. But why are you in that position in the first place?????

[jimjamuser]

It's about understanding the proper way to navigate through a two-lane roundabout. When everyone does it correctly, it is not a crap shoot.
The problem IS that everyone does NOT know how to navigate a roundabout correctly. And REALLY I don't expect everyone to do it perfectly........the roundabouts are accidents WAITING TO HAPPEN. There are 2 possible solutions - 1) Eliminate roundabouts and replace them with traffic lights. Some will say, that is TOO expensive. I would say that ONLY one accident with hospitalizations would make the traffic lights worthwhile. Also, all those sight-blocking landscaping and landscaping costs could be eliminated. 2) Merge the 2-lane traffic BEFORE the roundabout and have ONLY one lane inside the roundabout. Every driver in the US knows how to merge from 2 lanes to one lane. Some would say that it would SLOW down traffic. To that, I would say, "So what? We are mostly ALL retired." Also, traffic MAY ? move even faster because there will NOT BE any CONFUSION by a driver once inside the roundabout. I would be interested in a study comparing the time advantage or disadvantage of a 2-lane roundabout versus a 1-lane roundabout.

[Dusty_Star]

...

[Dusty_Star]

Got that one beat:

About 2 months ago my wife and I were driving north on BV to go to a show at Savannah. The car ahead of us took the Rainey Trail bypass, as did I. At the merge back into BV, the car ahead came to a dead stop even though no one was coming, waited about 5 seconds, then proceeded to make a 150-degree left turn into the northbound lanes against traffic.

That being said, based on previous posts on this thread, someone will post that is the correct procedure :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Oh my! What a nightmare. Imagine being northbound on Buena Vista & seeing a car coming straight at you! Scary

[Davonu]

…There are 2 possible solutions - 1) Eliminate roundabouts and replace them with traffic lights…
2) Merge the 2-lane traffic BEFORE the roundabout and have ONLY one lane inside the roundabout...
Wow. You want to see massive backups and delays, just implement both of these “solutions” in The Villages.

There have been many traffic studies done comparing signalized intersections and roundabouts. Roundabouts win almost every time, when traffic and other variables are properly considered. Roundabouts fit The Villages just fine.

[VApeople]

Roundabouts fit The Villages just fine.

I completely agree with you.

We have been here 7 years and have never had even a semi-serious problem dealing with a roundabout.

[JoMar]

What was the over/under on this thread?

[Bogie Shooter]

What was the over/under on this thread?

It’s not finished……..:1rotfl:

[Velvet]

Workers seem inevitably to treat the roundabouts as a short race track, people from out of the area are not used to such small roundabouts, or in which direction they go. People on meds, or who are having a medical problem suddenly, drive unpredictably sooo… drive defensively. Leave yourself an out, never let anyone hit you.

[coffeebean]

I have not seen anyone driving clockwise in the roundabouts. Thanks to you, I will expect it!

Is it really that much shorter than doing it correctly? I really don't see the point.

I think that comment was a joke. I have seen a woman driving in the wrong direction.........once and I never want to see that occur again. That is a very scary scenario.

[jimmy o]

This is why I IMAGINE I am at a red light when I approach a roundabout. You wait until the roundabout is clear, then you proceed.

I have seen far too many drivers approaching round abouts thinking they always have a green light to go. These people scare me and I immediately slow down. We all have been driving for decades. How do some not understand that at an intersection you must stop and yield?

Most traffic intersections have stop signs or red lights forcing a driver to stop. The rules do not change for roundabouts. Before you enter, you YIELD. In a roundabout, similar to a stop sign, it only takes a few seconds.
Sorry but yield is not necessarily a stop. It can also be a “slow down” if a car is already passing by, or a drive right in if no cars are around.

[Randall55]

Sorry but yield is not necessarily a stop. It can also be a “slow down” if a car is already passing by, or a drive right in if no cars are around. If someone is in the inner circle, it is best to stop before entering. I do not see how it would be safe to keep moving while trying to leave a gap. The villages roundabouts are a only a few feet deep.

You are taking a big risk by assuming the exiting car will not speed up to cross over. Or, it will slow down sufficiently allowing you to pass. For me, too tight of a space to proceed without stopping. The stop only takes a few seconds. Those few seconds may save my life.

Reading the posts of near hits makes me more determined to stop before entering. Living here 19 years, I have never had a near accident in a RAB and I intend to keep it that way.

[Two Bills]

Many posters mention that the roundabouts are small.
With roundabouts, size is not a factor.
Roundabouts are nothing more than road junctions, with their own navigation procedure, just as a four way, or a junction with traffic lights have theirs.
No one complains crossroads, or T junctions are to small. Why worry about size of roundabouts, they are all junctions.
There is plenty of room if the laid down navigation procedure is followed.
Here in UK. and Europe many roundabouts have no raised central area, just a painted circle, and a roundabout sign.
Some have multiple exits, with traffic flowing in both directions and mini roundabouts within the main roundabout.
Learn the priorities, and navigation procedures, and they are a very efficient and safe way of regulating traffic flow.
All you need to remember is, be in the correct lane when approaching roundabout, yield to all lanes of traffic to your left that are IN the roundabout before entering, stay in lane until you exit.
If in doubt as to which exit you need, always take the inner lane, as you can circle roundabout safely until you see your correct exit.
Directional signals are a big help prior to exiting.
So simple!

[jimjamuser]

Wow. You want to see massive backups and delays, just implement both of these “solutions” in The Villages.

There have been many traffic studies done comparing signalized intersections and roundabouts. Roundabouts win almost every time, when traffic and other variables are properly considered. Roundabouts fit The Villages just fine.
If roundabouts, "fit The Villages just FINE", why then, do we have TWELVE pages of controversy about the subject? The problem has been discussed off and on for YEARS. Maybe if we were all born in England and used roundabouts when we started driving at age 16, then 100% of us would be unconsciously familiar with them and we would have NO controversy. But, for the average US driver, they NEVER encounter roundabouts until they come to The Villages and are asked to practically re-learn how to drive (difficult at over age 60).
I do believe that 15 years ago when roundabouts 1st appeared that the traffic density was SO LOW that roundabouts were functional. Today they don't work WELL because the traffic density is TOO HIGH for them to be useful. As I said before they are accidents waiting to happen and a great headache for older drivers.

[Two Bills]

If roundabouts, "fit The Villages just FINE", why then, do we have TWELVE pages of controversy about the subject? The problem has been discussed off and on for YEARS. Maybe if we were all born in England and used roundabouts when we started driving at age 16, then 100% of us would be unconsciously familiar with them and we would have NO controversy. But, for the average US driver, they NEVER encounter roundabouts until they come to The Villages and are asked to practically re-learn how to drive (difficult at over age 60).
I do believe that 15 years ago when roundabouts 1st appeared that the traffic density was SO LOW that roundabouts were functional. Today they don't work WELL because the traffic density is TOO HIGH for them to be useful. As I said before they are accidents waiting to happen and a great headache for older drivers.

Twelve pages of controversy?
Too many Sinatra's, wanting to do it "My Way!"

If you have a problem understanding something as simple as navigating a roundabout, you should jack your driving license in, whether over or under 60 years of age!
If you can navigate a normal crossroad, or T junction what is the problem?
The lane discipline on approach and in it, is exactly the same.
All you have to learn, and adhere too, is do not enter, but yield to any vehicles in roundabout to you left, and enter when clear to do so, and stay in that lane.
How hard is that?

I'm 84 and trying to learn Spanish this winter.
That is what you call hard!

[Maker]

And once again, that is WRONG!!!! My advice is NOT faulty and my criticism of bad drivers is valid. Once again, this thread demonstrates that probably 1/2 of the drivers are clueless as to the proper method of navigating a RB, the post I'm responding to is a perfect example.

In the scenario he describes, the only way a crash happens at 12:00 is if the car entering the RB at 3:00 does not allow the car in the inner lane to pass far enough ahead, or enters and speeds around faster than the car in the inner lane. The fault is entirely upon the driver entering the RB at 3:00, NOT the design of the RB and NOT the car in the inner lane. Once again, this is not rocket science

Yet if it's "bad advice" or "clueless people" then with the car entering at 3:00 is following your advice 100%. Car is following the printed map directions 100%. Cars are never next to the other car at any point.

How do you fail to see that the cars can crash?

[Bill14564]

Yet if it's "bad advice" or "clueless people" then with the car entering at 3:00 is following your advice 100%. Car is following the printed map directions 100%. Cars are never next to the other car at any point.

How do you fail to see that the cars can crash?

How *can* they crash?

The car currently in the RAB will proceed to exit at 12:00. The car at 3:00 will wait for the car currently in the RAB to pass the 3:00 position. This puts the car currently in the RAB at the point where it will cross the outside lane to exit. The crash can only occur if the car entering at 3:00 accelerates rapidly to impact the car currently in the RAB before he completely exits. DON'T DO THAT! Don't accelerate to over 20mph in order to overtake the vehicle that has just gone past you.

[Maker]

And yet, as the previous posts show, there are those for which it will never sink in. The correct procedure has been laid out dozens of times in this thread alone, yet people go on posting wrong info. The lack of understanding of navigating the RBs is frightening just on the computer screen----the actions of these posters in the RBs are just plain dangerous

And their advice is 100% correct (in their minds) but only for 80% of the time (in reality) because they refuse to consider the big picture.

[Maker]

How *can* they crash?

The car currently in the RAB will proceed to exit at 12:00. The car at 3:00 will wait for the car currently in the RAB to pass the 3:00 position. This puts the car currently in the RAB at the point where it will cross the outside lane to exit. The crash can only occur if the car entering at 3:00 accelerates rapidly to impact the car currently in the RAB before he completely exits. DON'T DO THAT! Don't accelerate to over 20mph in order to overtake the vehicle that has just gone past you.

How can they crash?

Way #1
The 3:00 car enters the rab already moving. Trivial to reach 20mph. Car did yield (was not required to stop) since they are watching traffic, see just that one other car in the inside lane, and safely enter the rab not next to that car with spacing.
The inside car exits across the path of the 3:00 car.

Way #2
Both cars traveling with a reasonable gap between them. Car on the inside lane slows down to make the exit "safer" by checking their mirrors. Then exits in front of outside lane car.

Way #3
Car in outside lane is not from the entitled TV population and is expecting a car in the inside lane to USE TURN SIGNALS, and they fail to do so.

Way #4
There is a third car in the inside lane. First car exits rab, and the car in the outside lane brakes to avoid a collision. The car following the outside lane exits very close the back of the car braking because they expected that car to move at the same speed. Exiting car brakes to avoid hitting the rear of that breaking car. But there is a 4th car, it's in the outside lane. Reaction time kicks in and by the time they brake to avoid the mess ahead, that 3rd car exits, crashing into them.

All cars are following all signs, all posted how-to-drive maps, all recommended "safe" advice from our keyboard experts.

BUT
If the outside lane must exit at every side road. (barriers prevent going around)
The only way to go around (pass a side road) is via the inside lane.
There would be none of this endless debates. Crashing at the rab exits would not be possible in any scenario because there would be no lane with vehicles to crash with.

[Randall55]

Many posters mention that the roundabouts are small.
With roundabouts, size is not a factor.
Roundabouts are nothing more than road junctions, with their own navigation procedure, just as a four way, or a junction with traffic lights have theirs.
No one complains crossroads, or T junctions are to small. Why worry about size of roundabouts, they are all junctions.
There is plenty of room if the laid down navigation procedure is followed.
Here in UK. and Europe many roundabouts have no raised central area, just a painted circle, and a roundabout sign.
Some have multiple exits, with traffic flowing in both directions and mini roundabouts within the main roundabout.
Learn the priorities, and navigation procedures, and they are a very efficient and safe way of regulating traffic flow.
All you need to remember is, be in the correct lane when approaching roundabout, yield to all lanes of traffic to your left that are IN the roundabout before entering, stay in lane until you exit.
If in doubt as to which exit you need, always take the inner lane, as you can circle roundabout safely until you see your correct exit.
Directional signals are a big help prior to exiting.
So simple!When you factor in quite a few drivers do not know the area and therefore which lane to be in, some have never driven a roundabout, some are more concerned about lining themselves up with the resident gate, some are nervous and confused, some have reached the age where their reaction skills have diminished, and some have no idea what the word yield means, the RAB is too tight to maneuver. Thanks for your wise suggestions, but I am still going to stop before entering. It takes a few seconds to check your surroundings. Not a big deal.

[Bill14564]

How can they crash?

Way #1
The 3:00 car enters the rab already moving. Trivial to reach 20mph. Car did yield (was not required to stop) since they are watching traffic, see just that one other car in the inside lane, and safely enter the rab not next to that car with spacing.
The inside car exits across the path of the 3:00 car.
The 3:00 car overtakes the car already in the RAB. DON'T DO THAT!

Way #2
Both cars traveling with a reasonable gap between them. Car on the inside lane slows down to make the exit "safer" by checking their mirrors. Then exits in front of outside lane car.
Why would someone slow down in the RAB? To check their mirrors? They are in a turn and might only see flowers.
Even so, the 3:00 car overtakes the car already in the RAB. DON'T DO THAT!

Way #3
Car in outside lane is not from the entitled TV population and is expecting a car in the inside lane to USE TURN SIGNALS, and they fail to do so.
If a driver on the road today expects anyone to use their turn signals or believes that anyone is going to follow their turn signals they need much more experience.

But in any case, the 3:00 car overtakes the car already in the RAB. DON'T DO THAT!

Way #4
There is a third car in the inside lane. First car exits rab, and the car in the outside lane brakes to avoid a collision. The car following the outside lane exits very close the back of the car braking because they expected that car to move at the same speed. Exiting car brakes to avoid hitting the rear of that breaking car. But there is a 4th car, it's in the outside lane. Reaction time kicks in and by the time they brake to avoid the mess ahead, that 3rd car exits, crashing into them.
Seems like all of that is following too closely and inattentive driving. DON'T DO THAT!

All cars are following all signs, all posted how-to-drive maps, all recommended "safe" advice from our keyboard experts.

BUT
If the outside lane must exit at every side road. (barriers prevent going around)
The only way to go around (pass a side road) is via the inside lane.
There would be none of this endless debates. Crashing at the rab exits would not be possible in any scenario because there would be no lane with vehicles to crash with.
As others have suggested, just merge two lanes of traffic to one through the RAB then expand back to two only to merge again at the next RAB. And some think we have traffic problems now!

These are examples of impossible physics, unsafe driving, inexperience, or some combination of the three. They may speak to the expected level of driving skills but none expose an inherent flaw of the RAB or signage.

We don't say that roads are unsafe because someone traveling 55mph might be hit by someone behind them traveling mph. Instead we say that the driver traveling 85mph was in the wrong.

We don't say that red lights are unsafe because rear-end crashes happen at signaled intersections. Instead we say that drivers need to pay more attention.

Unfortunately, we *do* take away flashing yellow turns because a crash has occurred when a driver did not look hard enough to see oncoming traffic. That was still the driver's fault and not a flaw with the intersection. But if we are going to cater to the least common denominator then we'll soon be back to someone carrying a light and walking in front of the horseless carriage.

[Randall55]

How can they crash?

Way #1
The 3:00 car enters the rab already moving. Trivial to reach 20mph. Car did yield (was not required to stop) since they are watching traffic, see just that one other car in the inside lane, and safely enter the rab not next to that car with spacing.
The inside car exits across the path of the 3:00 car.

Way #2
Both cars traveling with a reasonable gap between them. Car on the inside lane slows down to make the exit "safer" by checking their mirrors. Then exits in front of outside lane car.

Way #3
Car in outside lane is not from the entitled TV population and is expecting a car in the inside lane to USE TURN SIGNALS, and they fail to do so.

Way #4
There is a third car in the inside lane. First car exits rab, and the car in the outside lane brakes to avoid a collision. The car following the outside lane exits very close the back of the car braking because they expected that car to move at the same speed. Exiting car brakes to avoid hitting the rear of that breaking car. But there is a 4th car, it's in the outside lane. Reaction time kicks in and by the time they brake to avoid the mess ahead, that 3rd car exits, crashing into them.

All cars are following all signs, all posted how-to-drive maps, all recommended "safe" advice from our keyboard experts.

BUT
If the outside lane must exit at every side road. (barriers prevent going around)
The only way to go around (pass a side road) is via the inside lane.
There would be none of this endless debates. Crashing at the rab exits would not be possible in any scenario because there would be no lane with vehicles to crash with.Huh? I am confused. So, the developer needs to design the roadways to make certain no one crashes at an intersection? How bout those who never drove a roundabout watch a video on how to do it? Easy to do! Pick up your phone and watch!

None of those crashes would have occurred. A rule of a RAB is to yield. Yield means to let other road users GO FIRST. Easy! Allow any vehicle in front of you to GO FIRST!

[Two Bills]

When you factor in quite a few drivers do not know the area and therefore which lane to be in, some have never driven a roundabout, some are more concerned about lining themselves up with the resident gate, some are nervous and confused, some have reached the age where their reaction skills have diminished, and some have no idea what the word yield means, the RAB is too tight to maneuver. Thanks for your wise suggestions, but I am still going to stop before entering. It takes a few seconds to check your surroundings. Not a big deal.


I often drive in foreign countries, and in areas of my own where I do not know the roads as well as locals or directions etc. and mangae quite competently, but as I said in another post, if you find navigating a roundabout far to stressful and complicated, why are you still driving?
Apart from yielding to enter if needed, the lane discipline is the same as at any crossroad or T junction, so you will probably get confused, stressed etc. at them as well.
Time to give up the license.

[Randall55]

I often drive in foreign countries, and in areas of my own where I do not know the roads as well as locals or directions etc. and mangae quite competently, but as I said in another post, if you find navigating a roundabout far to stressful and complicated, why are you still driving?
Apart from yielding to enter if needed, the lane discipline is the same as at any crossroad or T junction, so you will probably get confused, stressed etc. at them as well.
Time to give up the license.Thanks again, But waiting a few seconds for a gap and yielding are the rules of a RAB. I have been to other countries as well and had no problems. The RAB in the Villages are NOT the same as in other countries. They are MUCH SMALLER and are designed to be driven slowly.

[Maker]

The 3:00 car overtakes the car already in the RAB. DON'T DO THAT!

Again - not understanding the situation and making up a reply that does not follow the example... wrong three times in a row.

There is no overtaking.

The inside lane car exits directly in front of the outside lane car that is not exiting.
Inside lane car is in front of outside lane car.
Inside lane car crosses into path of outside lane car. Crash happens.

[Maker]

I often drive in foreign countries, and in areas of my own where I do not know the roads as well as locals or directions etc. and mangae quite competently, but as I said in another post, if you find navigating a roundabout far to stressful and complicated, why are you still driving?
Apart from yielding to enter if needed, the lane discipline is the same as at any crossroad or T junction, so you will probably get confused, stressed etc. at them as well.
Time to give up the license.

you forgot the "go back north" part
smh

[Velvet]

I often drive in foreign countries, and in areas of my own where I do not know the roads as well as locals or directions etc. and mangae quite competently, but as I said in another post, if you find navigating a roundabout far to stressful and complicated, why are you still driving?
Apart from yielding to enter if needed, the lane discipline is the same as at any crossroad or T junction, so you will probably get confused, stressed etc. at them as well.
Time to give up the license.

In TV you are driving because there is no public transportation. All other alternatives are either too expensive or cumbersome. Golf carts can’t go everywhere and some places are too far for electric carts. Although some people narrow their world and get by with golf cart paths.

[Randall55]

Again - not understanding the situation and making up a reply that does not follow the example... wrong three times in a row.

There is no overtaking.

The inside lane car exits directly in front of the outside lane car that is not exiting.
Inside lane car is in front of outside lane car.
Inside lane car crosses into path of outside lane car. Crash happens.Crash does not happen. A driver is supposed to recognize the other vehicle needs to cross over his path. You leave a gap and slow down to allow them to do it. Yield! That is the rule of a RAB.

This is not rocket science! At any intersection cars pass over the paths of other cars.

When you are at a red light, do you see those who have a green light CROSSING your path?

When you are a stop sign, do you see a vehicle CROSS OVER YOUR PATH?

That is what an intersection is!!! Vehicles CROSSING PATHS.

In a RAB, there are no stop signs or red lights. You are supposed to allow others to CROSS YOUR PATH.

[jimjamuser]

Twelve pages of controversy?
Too many Sinatra's, wanting to do it "My Way!"

If you have a problem understanding something as simple as navigating a roundabout, you should jack your driving license in, whether over or under 60 years of age!
If you can navigate a normal crossroad, or T junction what is the problem?
The lane discipline on approach and in it, is exactly the same.
All you have to learn, and adhere too, is do not enter, but yield to any vehicles in roundabout to you left, and enter when clear to do so, and stay in that lane.
How hard is that?

I'm 84 and trying to learn Spanish this winter.
That is what you call hard!
How hard is that? Apparently, it is 13 pages hard. Incidentally, I love ALL the beautiful flowers in the center of the roundabout. Too bad that the driver's eyes are so BUSY worrying about the actions of other drivers to notice the expensive flowers.

[jimjamuser]

How can they crash?

Way #1
The 3:00 car enters the rab already moving. Trivial to reach 20mph. Car did yield (was not required to stop) since they are watching traffic, see just that one other car in the inside lane, and safely enter the rab not next to that car with spacing.
The inside car exits across the path of the 3:00 car.

Way #2
Both cars traveling with a reasonable gap between them. Car on the inside lane slows down to make the exit "safer" by checking their mirrors. Then exits in front of outside lane car.

Way #3
Car in outside lane is not from the entitled TV population and is expecting a car in the inside lane to USE TURN SIGNALS, and they fail to do so.

Way #4
There is a third car in the inside lane. First car exits rab, and the car in the outside lane brakes to avoid a collision. The car following the outside lane exits very close the back of the car braking because they expected that car to move at the same speed. Exiting car brakes to avoid hitting the rear of that breaking car. But there is a 4th car, it's in the outside lane. Reaction time kicks in and by the time they brake to avoid the mess ahead, that 3rd car exits, crashing into them.

All cars are following all signs, all posted how-to-drive maps, all recommended "safe" advice from our keyboard experts.

BUT
If the outside lane must exit at every side road. (barriers prevent going around)
The only way to go around (pass a side road) is via the inside lane.
There would be none of this endless debates. Crashing at the rab exits would not be possible in any scenario because there would be no lane with vehicles to crash with.
OK, I believe you, but would it not be simpler to just have only one lane inside the roundabout? And do the merging before getting to the roundabout.......easy peasy, as they say.

[jimjamuser]

When you factor in quite a few drivers do not know the area and therefore which lane to be in, some have never driven a roundabout, some are more concerned about lining themselves up with the resident gate, some are nervous and confused, some have reached the age where their reaction skills have diminished, and some have no idea what the word yield means, the RAB is too tight to maneuver. Thanks for your wise suggestions, but I am still going to stop before entering. It takes a few seconds to check your surroundings. Not a big deal.
I agree about ALL the difficulties surrounding driving in a roundabout.

[coffeebean]

When you factor in quite a few drivers do not know the area and therefore which lane to be in, some have never driven a roundabout, some are more concerned about lining themselves up with the resident gate, some are nervous and confused, some have reached the age where their reaction skills have diminished, and some have no idea what the word yield means, the RAB is too tight to maneuver. Thanks for your wise suggestions, but I am still going to stop before entering. It takes a few seconds to check your surroundings. Not a big deal.

I don't stop before entering a RAB if I can clearly see there are no cars in site, in either lane, as I approach the RAB. Yielding works really really well in that scenario.

[jimjamuser]

In TV you are driving because there is no public transportation. All other alternatives are either too expensive or cumbersome. Golf carts can’t go everywhere and some places are too far for electric carts. Although some people narrow their world and get by with golf cart paths.
Sounds like the World's friendliest city does NOT have a friendly transportation system designed around retired people with age-normal physical limitations.

[coffeebean]

Thanks again, But waiting a few seconds for a gap and yielding are the rules of a RAB. I have been to other countries as well and had no problems. The RAB in the Villages are NOT the same as in other countries. They are MUCH SMALLER and are designed to be driven slowly.

I'm still trying to wrap my head around a "RAB within a RAB" that someone mentioned up-thread. This, of course, is not something we would see here in the US. I believe it was in a foreign country that this crazy RAB is located.

[coffeebean]

Again - not understanding the situation and making up a reply that does not follow the example... wrong three times in a row.

There is no overtaking.

The inside lane car exits directly in front of the outside lane car that is not exiting.
Inside lane car is in front of outside lane car.
Inside lane car crosses into path of outside lane car. Crash happens.

This is the scenario why I "hang back" when in the RAB. I vary my speed so I am NEVER EVER beside another vehicle.

I have had one experience in all these years that scared the hell our of me. I did, however, avoid an accident because I JAMMED on my breaks and so did my carJAM on the breaks. Between the two of us, that accident was avoided. The scenario is when I was in the outside lane ready to exit at my first exit. Some person in the inside lane sped up to exit in front of me IN MY LANE. What a turkey!!!!! If I had not jammed on my breaks, there would have been a collision. The person was in the inside lane and should have STAYED in that lane to exit but NO, that person had to exit into the outside lane in front of me. I don't even think that person realized there was almost a collision. He/she went on their merry way, fat, dumb and happy!

[coffeebean]

Crash does not happen. A driver is supposed to recognize the other vehicle needs to cross over his path. You leave a gap and slow down to allow them to do it. Yield! That is the rule of a RAB.

This is not rocket science! At any intersection cars pass over the paths of other cars.

When you are at a red light, do you see those who have a green light CROSSING your path?

When you are a stop sign, do you see a vehicle CROSS OVER YOUR PATH?

That is what an intersection is!!! Vehicles CROSSING PATHS.

In a RAB, there are no stop signs or red lights. You are supposed to allow others to CROSS YOUR PATH.

Don't you feel like you are banging your head against a wall?

[Two Bills]

Thanks again, But waiting a few seconds for a gap and yielding are the rules of a RAB. I have been to other countries as well and had no problems. The RAB in the Villages are NOT the same as in other countries. They are MUCH SMALLER and are designed to be driven slowly.

The only time you yield or stop is before entering to traffic from left, not in the roundabout.
In the roundabout it should be a continuous flow, and no one should have to stop, yield, or give way at all except in an emergency.
As for roundabouts in TV being smaller than anywhere else, thousands of them in UK and Europe are way smaller.

[Two Bills]

I'm still trying to wrap my head around a "RAB within a RAB" that someone mentioned up-thread. This, of course, is not something we would see here in the US. I believe it was in a foreign country that this crazy RAB is located.

Watch video in link. Interesting
I lived near some years ago, and used it regularly on way to work.
It's actually a brilliant system, and works well.
There are two in UK using that system.
Maybe TV is not ready for it yet!
You may spot that the mini roundabouts are just a painted circles, no raised centers.
There are many roundabouts with just that painted circle at junctions all over UK.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHVF1rnUKHw

[Randall55]

The only time you yield or stop is before entering to traffic from left, not in the roundabout.
In the roundabout it should be a continuous flow, and no one should have to stop, yield, or give way at all except in an emergency.
As for roundabouts in TV being smaller than anywhere else, thousands of them in UK and Europe are way smaller. You 100 % yield when you are in a RAB. Whether it is slowing down, leaving a gap, or stopping before entering. Please post any literature or video that states you DO NOT YIELD in a roundabout. Please post any literature or video that states a roundabout is continuous flow and not a replacement for a standard traffic light.

I have been to Europe and never saw a RAB smaller than the Villages. Some on the side streets were the same size.

[Bogie Shooter]

As for roundabouts in TV being smaller than anywhere else, thousands of them in UK and Europe are way smaller.


I have been to Europe and never saw a RAB smaller than the Villages. Some on the side streets were the same size.

Let’s see if I read this right.

A non resident visitor to Europe appears to call a resident a liar.

Or in kinder terms telling him he doesn’t know what he’s talking about.

[Two Bills]

You 100 % yield when you are in a RAB.

:ohdear: I give up!

[Randall55]

Let’s see if I read this right.

A non resident visitor to Europe appears to call a resident a liar.

Or in kinder terms telling him he doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
I am scheduled to go to England a few weeks before Christmas. I wasn't calling anyone a liar. From my perspective, the size seems to be the same.

After reading this, I spoke to my friend in England who has visited me in the Villages several times. He agrees the roundabouts are close in size. If he had told me the opposite, I would have admitted my error in judgement.

This time, I will take a measuring tape if it makes you happy.

It is obvious the many larger ones are MUCH LARGER. But, I will measure those, as well.

[Randall55]

:ohdear: I give up!A roundabout is an intersection. An intersection is where cars must cross over the paths of other vehicles. You allow the cars to cross over your path. That is the definition of yielding. Again, not rocket science.

[Bogie Shooter]

I am scheduled to go to England a few weeks before Christmas. I wasn't calling anyone a liar. From my perspective, the size seems to be the same.

After reading this, I spoke to my friend in England who has visited me in the Villages several times. He agrees the roundabouts are close in size. If he had told me the opposite, I would have admitted my error in judgement.

This time, I will take a measuring tape if it makes you happy.

It is obvious the many larger ones are MUCH LARGER. But, I will measure those, as well. I will not include the minis because they are just markers on the road. Not the same species we have here in the Villages.
//////

[wisbad1]

Did you enter the right lane as a vehicle was approaching in the left lane, did a vehicle enter the left lane next to you and at the same time, or did the vehicle already in the left lane race up and overtake you before you passed the first exit? The first one is definitely your fault, the second is definitely his fault, and the third is unlikely.
If you drive a crappy car, everyone will watch out for you!

[Velvet]

If you drive a crappy car, everyone will watch out for you!

Ok, that just made me laugh. You got the solution!

[Laker14]

I have not seen anyone driving clockwise in the roundabouts. Thanks to you, I will expect it!

Is it really that much shorter than doing it correctly? I really don't see the point.

I have. But they were in a golf cart so it doesn't count.
Honest. At the roundabout by SeaBreeze. I thought for sure I was going to see a fatality, however, all of the automobile traffic stopped, and the driver of the cart got out of that situation alive and unharmed.
Not sure if she made it home or not.

[coffeebean]

Watch video in link. Interesting
I lived near some years ago, and used it regularly on way to work.
It's actually a brilliant system, and works well.
There are two in UK using that system.
Maybe TV is not ready for it yet!
You may spot that the mini roundabouts are just a painted circles, no raised centers.
There are many roundabouts with just that painted circle at junctions all over UK.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHVF1rnUKHw

YIKES! This seems to work really well if you are used to it. I know I would not want to encounter this type of RAB.

This is one of the comments on YouTube regarding this "Magic Roundabout".........

@malcolmabram2957I
2 years ago (edited)
"I encountered this once, just the once in the 80s. Did not understand the weird sign, had to do a 'third exit,' so none the wiser, drove on and went round the inside lane to meet an oncoming car. Both of us stopped. I was hopelessly confused and went round the outside carefully until I got the exit to the M1. I heard the person who designed this got an award. I would have charged him with manslaughter."

[coffeebean]

If you drive a crappy car, everyone will watch out for you!

Very true. LOL.

[coffeebean]

I have. But they were in a golf cart so it doesn't count.
Honest. At the roundabout by SeaBreeze. I thought for sure I was going to see a fatality, however, all of the automobile traffic stopped, and the driver of the cart got out of that situation alive and unharmed.
Not sure if she made it home or not.

The one time I witnesses a wrong way driver in a RAB, there was honking and pointing going on with all the drivers withing the RAB. Thank goodness all who were in the RAB were aware of the wayward driver who got out of the RAB without causing a collision.

[Dusty_Star]

Watch video in link. Interesting
I lived near some years ago, and used it regularly on way to work.
It's actually a brilliant system, and works well.
There are two in UK using that system.
Maybe TV is not ready for it yet!
You may spot that the mini roundabouts are just a painted circles, no raised centers.
There are many roundabouts with just that painted circle at junctions all over UK.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHVF1rnUKHw

Now that's roundabout! Brilliant. I particularly like the mini roundabouts within the Magic Roundabout.

[Randall55]

If you drive a crappy car, everyone will watch out for you!I tend to be careful around the expensive brands and classic cars. Those drivers seem to believe they own the road. And, if I do cause an accident with one, I am most likely going to have to spend days in court. The owners will make certain they get every penny allowed. The man who owned a Lexus and beat an 87 yr old to death (and other similar stories) is something I remember and reminds me to be cautious.

The crappy cars are usually work vehicles. I watch them because they may not be familiar with the area.

[mntlblok]

How can we have 90 posts on the umpteenth thread on this topic and people STILL post incorrect information?



Might you be overestimating humans' abilities? :-)

[Aacosner]

Might you be overestimating humans' abilities? :-)

It seems that the root cause of almost all these roundabout mistakes is that the driver at fault foolishly ASSUMES that the car on the inside lane will keep going around. You know what they say about ASSUME?

[Garywt]

We were in a double- 2 lane round about, in the right lane. As I was about to pass a right hand turn and continue on in the round about, a driver next to me in the left lane made a sudden turn in front of me to exit the round about. I had to slam on the brake to avoid getting hit.

This started me thinking- If you are in the left lane of the round about you always run the risk that someone in the right lane will be in your way when it's time for your exit. Just because you have been passing right turns without taking them- someone just entering on the right could be in your way when you take the 3rd exit.

What am I missing? is there a way for someone in the right lane to avoid getting hit by a driver turning in from the left- or is it 100% trusting every driver in the left to not hit you? Seems like a crap shoot.

Thanks

Unfortunately too many don’t know what they are doing. The right lane must exit turn 1 or 2. The left lane can never exit the first turn but can exit turns 2, 3 or 4. If someone is next to them when they get to turn 3 the other car either failed to get off at exit 2 or failed to yield when entering on the opposite side, either way the car in the right lane would be at fault if anything happened.

[Maker]

Unfortunately too many don’t know what they are doing. The right lane must exit turn 1 or 2. The left lane can never exit the first turn but can exit turns 2, 3 or 4. If someone is next to them when they get to turn 3 the other car either failed to get off at exit 2 or failed to yield when entering on the opposite side, either way the car in the right lane would be at fault if anything happened.

All of that reasoning fails when you consider that cars can enter in 4 places. Counting the number of exits to apply rules to straight/exit per lane is different depending upon when they entered relative to yourself. There are combinations of where they enter, each follows every "rule" and yet their paths cross forcing someone to take evasive action.

It's not that they don't know what they are doing. It's that people are certain that only they know the rules. Everyone else does it wrong.

[Bill14564]

All of that reasoning fails when you consider that cars can enter in 4 places. Counting the number of exits to apply rules to straight/exit per lane is different depending upon when they entered relative to yourself. There are combinations of where they enter, each follows every "rule" and yet their paths cross forcing someone to take evasive action.

It's not that they don't know what they are doing. It's that people are certain that only they know the rules. Everyone else does it wrong.

Rewind back to post #28 to see the discussions on why that statement is incorrect.

[Randall55]

Attached is a picture of a type of mini roundabout in Europe. I drive extensively and have seen multitudes of similar in our country. I grew up in Pittsburgh where there are many.

The difference? Most Americans do not call these roundabouts. They treat them like a normal intersection stopping before going around. They are one lane and easy to navigate.

I have yet to witness an American driver keeping speed and not stopping before entering. In Europe, they do the opposite. Keep their speed unless another driver is at the circle. I often have to restrain my English friend when he is driving in the USA. He is an aggressive driver while most Americans are defensive drivers. This ticks him off and he wants to prove his point and then goes faster. Two different cultures; two different ways of looking at things.

In my opinion, the pic of what Europeans call a mini roundabout is not similar to the roundabouts in the Villages because there is no inner circle, no resident gates, and we have more RABS in close proximity on a given road.

Are the adjectives larger and smaller the correct ones to describe the difference? Probably not, sorry for my part of the confusion.

[Velvet]

The above picture does not look like a roundabout to me. It looks like an intersection with a plant stuck in the middle.

[Randall55]

The above picture does not look like a roundabout to me. It looks like an intersection with a plant stuck in the middle.Right! In America, that is how we describe them. An intersection. In Europe, they are called mini roundabouts.There are other types, some with a circle and arrows painted on the roads, but none which we would define as roundabouts in the States.

[Topspinmo]

All of that reasoning fails when you consider that cars can enter in 4 places. Counting the number of exits to apply rules to straight/exit per lane is different depending upon when they entered relative to yourself. There are combinations of where they enter, each follows every "rule" and yet their paths cross forcing someone to take evasive action.

It's not that they don't know what they are doing. It's that people are certain that only they know the rules. Everyone else does it wrong.


It only applies where you enter and what lane you’re in.

[mntlblok]

When people finally realize you don’t make a right hand turn from the left lane! Wouldn’t do that on a regular road so not sure why people think they can do that on a round about! If you can’t get over then go around again and get in the proper lane to turn! The same for a left hand turn…can’t turn left from a right hand lane!
Wow.

[Get real]

The above picture does not look like a roundabout to me. It looks like an intersection with a plant stuck in the middle.

Is that a golf cart roundabout?

[flsteve]

When you enter the roundabout in the right lane ….you have to exit the 1st or 2nd right exit, if you go to the third then you are in the wrong.
Enter in the left lane you have to exit the 2nd or 3rd or 4th right exit.
It’s posted at every roundabout it’s not that hard

Just adding here, most people seem to forget that option for a U-turn. You can definitely exit at "6" from the left lane as well. :smiley:

[mntlblok]

In TV you are driving because there is no public transportation. All other alternatives are either too expensive or cumbersome. Golf carts can’t go everywhere and some places are too far for electric carts. Although some people narrow their world and get by with golf cart paths.

Aha! The *real* reason that golf carts are so popular in TV! They allow you to avoid those scary roundabouts! :-)

[Marathon Man]

Unfortunately too many don’t know what they are doing. The right lane must exit turn 1 or 2. The left lane can never exit the first turn but can exit turns 2, 3 or 4. If someone is next to them when they get to turn 3 the other car either failed to get off at exit 2 or failed to yield when entering on the opposite side, either way the car in the right lane would be at fault if anything happened.

I don't agree. And that is because you said "must" and "can never". Replace those with "should". Notice that the signs are green.

Once a car is in the roundabout in the inner lane, be ready for them to exit anywhere. Once a car is in the roundabout in the outer lane, be ready for them to pass any exit.

[flsteve]

This is the scenario why I "hang back" when in the RAB. I vary my speed so I am NEVER EVER beside another vehicle.

I have had one experience in all these years that scared the hell our of me. I did, however, avoid an accident because I JAMMED on my breaks and so did my carJAM on the breaks. Between the two of us, that accident was avoided. The scenario is when I was in the outside lane ready to exit at my first exit. Some person in the inside lane sped up to exit in front of me IN MY LANE. What a turkey!!!!! If I had not jammed on my breaks, there would have been a collision. The person was in the inside lane and should have STAYED in that lane to exit but NO, that person had to exit into the outside lane in front of me. I don't even think that person realized there was almost a collision. He/she went on their merry way, fat, dumb and happy!

I remember the day that you reported this as a thread starter. As an engineer trying to analyze this with a bit more information you supplied here, I believe that POSSIBLY both cars right, yet both at fault here.

I am assuming that this was a resident in the other car, because you stated that they exited the RAB and moved to the right lane instead of staying in the left lane like they should have done. The right lane AFTER EXITING the RAB is for residents at an entrance to a village. So the other car may have actually performed TWO maneuvers at the same time; exit AND quick lane change for the gate entry. Is that the case? I would like to know the exact RAB and the positions of each car's entry (i.e. 6, 3, 12, 6) to understand this better.

Based upon the presumption above, however, my best assessment would be that the car entering the RAB (yours) should not assume that entering the RAB and exiting at the first exit is a clear shot to the right lane. If there was a car inside the RAB IN ANY LANE before you enter, let them have their right of way.

In my opinion, you were in the right from one aspect, but the number 1 rule is to yield to ANY car in the RAB before you enter. The other car was wrong to switch lanes PRIOR to exiting (if that is what happened there), but if you yielded just 1 second longer there would not have been any incident.

If this went to court and there were mock-ups showing positions I believe that the other car would have been deemed "at fault", because from what I NOW see about your previous thread's story the other car might have changed lanes prior to its exit of the RAB. ???

Please correct anything that I am wrong about here. One thing is certain, DEFENSIVE DRIVING techniques (not sure if they are even taught anymore) are paramount in Villages roundabouts. Assume all drivers are out to get you. Snowbirds, new residents, older residents, and sightseeing traffic present worries to those of us that DO understand how roundabouts are actually very nice. We should watch out for them and maybe be a bit more understanding of their confusion.

[Calisport]

Look at the arrows on the road for your answer.

[Bilyclub]

I don't agree. And that is because you said "must" and "can never". Replace those with "should". Notice that the signs are green.

Once a car is in the roundabout in the inner lane, be ready for them to exit anywhere. Once a car is in the roundabout in the outer lane, be ready for them to pass any exit.

Is there some law saying green traffic signs can be disregarded ? Never heard of a traffic control sign that means "should".

[coffeebean]

All of that reasoning fails when you consider that cars can enter in 4 places. Counting the number of exits to apply rules to straight/exit per lane is different depending upon when they entered relative to yourself. There are combinations of where they enter, each follows every "rule" and yet their paths cross forcing someone to take evasive action.

It's not that they don't know what they are doing. It's that people are certain that only they know the rules. Everyone else does it wrong.

Evasive action happens only when someone does not yield. These RABs work beautifully, like a choreographed dance, when everyone yields to other vehicles at the correct times. Yielding is the key.

Just the other day, some young buck approached the RAB so fast, I just knew he was going to jump in ahead of me as I was approaching that exit. Sure enough, the guy sped into the RAB when he should have yielded to me. I let him know he was wrong, wrong, wrong with what he did and I layed on the horn. He thanked me by giving me the finger as he zoomed by me.

[coffeebean]

I don't agree. And that is because you said "must" and "can never". Replace those with "should". Notice that the signs are green.

Once a car is in the roundabout in the inner lane, be ready for them to exit anywhere. Once a car is in the roundabout in the outer lane, be ready for them to pass any exit.

These scenarios are not correct. That is the point you are making, right? I hope you are trying to make the point that you must drive defensively in RAB because people will do stupid things and not adhere to the rules of the RABs.

[coffeebean]

I remember the day that you reported this as a thread starter. As an engineer trying to analyze this with a bit more information you supplied here, I believe that POSSIBLY both cars right, yet both at fault here.

I am assuming that this was a resident in the other car, because you stated that they exited the RAB and moved to the right lane instead of staying in the left lane like they should have done. The right lane AFTER EXITING the RAB is for residents at an entrance to a village. So the other car may have actually performed TWO maneuvers at the same time; exit AND quick lane change for the gate entry. Is that the case? I would like to know the exact RAB and the positions of each car's entry (i.e. 6, 3, 12, 6) to understand this better.

Based upon the presumption above, however, my best assessment would be that the car entering the RAB (yours) should not assume that entering the RAB and exiting at the first exit is a clear shot to the right lane. If there was a car inside the RAB IN ANY LANE before you enter, let them have their right of way.

In my opinion, you were in the right from one aspect, but the number 1 rule is to yield to ANY car in the RAB before you enter. The other car was wrong to switch lanes PRIOR to exiting (if that is what happened there), but if you yielded just 1 second longer there would not have been any incident.

If this went to court and there were mock-ups showing positions I believe that the other car would have been deemed "at fault", because from what I NOW see about your previous thread's story the other car might have changed lanes prior to its exit of the RAB. ???

Please correct anything that I am wrong about here. One thing is certain, DEFENSIVE DRIVING techniques (not sure if they are even taught anymore) are paramount in Villages roundabouts. Assume all drivers are out to get you. Snowbirds, new residents, older residents, and sightseeing traffic present worries to those of us that DO understand how roundabouts are actually very nice. We should watch out for them and maybe be a bit more understanding of their confusion.

Ok, I'll try my best to reconstruct the scenario...........

I was heading south on Morse, approaching the Caroline RAB. I entered the RAB at 6 in the outside lane and was heading to exit 12 to continue south on Morse. When I entered the RAB at 6, there were no cars in sight so I proceeded into the RAB. As I was about to pass the exit at 3 (as if to go to Winn Dixie), another car in the inside lane came SPEEDING past me and exited into the outside lane directly in front of me. No, there was no resident gate to deal with as he sped past me onto Stillwater Trail. He may heave been heading to Winn Dixie and needed to go grocery shopping in a hurry. All I know is my purse landed on the floor of the car because I had to jam on the brakes hard enough to avoid that collision.

[margaretmattson]

Ok, I'll try my best to reconstruct the scenario...........

I was heading south on Morse, approaching the Caroline RAB. I entered the RAB at 6 in the outside lane and was heading to exit 12 to continue south on Morse. When I entered the RAB at 6, there were no cars in sight so I proceeded into the RAB. As I was about to pass the exit at 3 (as if to go to Winn Dixie), another car in the inside lane came SPEEDING past me and exited into the outside lane directly in front of me. No, there was no resident gate to deal with as he sped past me onto Stillwater Trail. He may heave been heading to Winn Dixie and needed to go grocery shopping in a hurry. All I know is my purse landed on the floor of the car because I had to jam on the brakes hard enough to avoid that collision.I find it hard to believe a vehicle that was not in the RAB before you managed to pass you from the opposite side of the RAB. There is more distance that needs to be travelled in the inner circle than your vehicle travelling from 6 o'clock to 3. If I am wrong, the other vehicle must have been moving at excessive speed. If this is the case, the driver was a lunatic who possibly had a death wish.

If I am right, you did not yield. Clear to go in a RAB does not mean your lane only. Vehicles in the inner circle always have the right of way. You have to allow them to exit either by stopping before entering or leaving a gap. The reason? Cars in the inner circle must cross over the outside circle to exit. It is impossible for those in the inner circle not to do so.

[Laker14]

I find it hard to believe a vehicle that was not in the RAB before you managed to pass you from the opposite side of the RAB. There is more distance that needs to be travelled in the inner circle than your vehicle travelling from 6 o'clock to 3. If I am wrong, the other vehicle must have been moving at excessive speed. If this is the case, the driver was a lunatic who possibly had a death wish.

If I am right, you did not yield. Clear to go in a RAB does not mean your lane only. Vehicles in the inner circle always have the right of way. You have to allow them to exit either by stopping before entering or leaving a gap. The reason? Cars in the inner circle must cross over the outside circle to exit. It is impossible for those in the inner circle not to do so.

My thoughts as well.
Hard to imagine a car going from out of view to the 3 O'Clock exit in the time it takes to go from the 6 O'Clock to the 3 O'Clock.

[Laker14]

One important benefit of these repeating roundabout threads is learning that so many people out there don't know the rules, that it reminds us all to be very defensive.

[golfing eagles]

My thoughts as well.
Hard to imagine a car going from out of view to the 3 O'Clock exit in the time it takes to go from the 6 O'Clock to the 3 O'Clock.

I suppose the vehicle in the inner lane could be going VERY fast, or the car entering and going to 3 o'clock was going VERY slow.

[Marathon Man]

Ok, I'll try my best to reconstruct the scenario...........

I was heading south on Morse, approaching the Caroline RAB. I entered the RAB at 6 in the outside lane and was heading to exit 12 to continue south on Morse. When I entered the RAB at 6, there were no cars in sight so I proceeded into the RAB. As I was about to pass the exit at 3 (as if to go to Winn Dixie), another car in the inside lane came SPEEDING past me and exited into the outside lane directly in front of me. No, there was no resident gate to deal with as he sped past me onto Stillwater Trail. He may heave been heading to Winn Dixie and needed to go grocery shopping in a hurry. All I know is my purse landed on the floor of the car because I had to jam on the brakes hard enough to avoid that collision.

But it sounds like it was actually there. Sometimes a quick glance is not enough.

[Laker14]

I suppose the vehicle in the inner lane could be going VERY fast, or the car entering and going to 3 o'clock was going VERY slow.

or both.
it seems to me the car in the inner lane would have to travel almost 3 times the distance that the car in the outer lane travels, to get in front of the car in the outer lane.

if the car in the outer lane were going 15mph, the other car would be approaching, or exceeding 45mph. In the inner lane of a roundabout, that's pretty speedy.

[coffeebean]

I find it hard to believe a vehicle that was not in the RAB before you managed to pass you from the opposite side of the RAB. There is more distance that needs to be travelled in the inner circle than your vehicle travelling from 6 o'clock to 3. If I am wrong, the other vehicle must have been moving at excessive speed. If this is the case, the driver was a lunatic who possibly had a death wish.

If I am right, you did not yield. Clear to go in a RAB does not mean your lane only. Vehicles in the inner circle always have the right of way. You have to allow them to exit either by stopping before entering or leaving a gap. The reason? Cars in the inner circle must cross over the outside circle to exit. It is impossible for those in the inner circle not to do so.

There were no cars visible to me in either the inner or outer lane when I entered the RAB.The car that cut me off was speeding. That is how he caught up to me. He must have entered at 9 after I entered at 6. Yes, that is quite a bit of ground to cover but he did it by speeding.

[coffeebean]

My thoughts as well.
Hard to imagine a car going from out of view to the 3 O'Clock exit in the time it takes to go from the 6 O'Clock to the 3 O'Clock.

Hard to imagine but that guy did it. He continued to speed when he exited the RAB on his way to Winn Dixie. Maybe there was a sale. LOL.

[coffeebean]

I suppose the vehicle in the inner lane could be going VERY fast, or the car entering and going to 3 o'clock was going VERY slow.

That about sums it up, I guess. I don't travel very slowly in the RABs, but I don't go fast either. I don't ever enter a RAB when there are cars in the RAB, in either lane, that I can see.

[coffeebean]

But it sounds like it was actually there. Sometimes a quick glance is not enough.

No, the car was not in the RAB when I entered at 6. He must have entered at 9 after I entered at 6 but sped up to catch me. He came out of nowhere and that is what I distinctly recall. He scared the &*%$ out of me.

[Bill14564]

No, the car was not in the RAB when I entered at 6. He must have entered at 9 after I entered at 6 but sped up to catch me. He came out of nowhere and that is what I distinctly recall. He scared the &*%$ out of me.

So in the time it took you to travel 70ft from the Morse South entrance of the RAB to the Stillwater West exit, about 3 seconds, the other car overtook you.

Since you didn't see the other car it either needed to be a little ways down Stillwater to the east or coming around the circle. In either case, that would be about 300 feet from the Stillwater West exit.

For the other car to travel 300 feet (otherwise you would have seen it) in the same 3 seconds it took you to get to the exit (otherwise it would have been behind you) the math says the car would need to be traveling between 50mph and 75mph through the RAB (and possibly from a standing start at the Stillwater gate).

[coffeebean]

So in the time it took you to travel 70ft from the Morse South entrance of the RAB to the Stillwater West exit, about 3 seconds, the other car overtook you.

Since you didn't see the other car it either needed to be a little ways down Stillwater to the east or coming around the circle. In either case, that would be about 300 feet from the Stillwater West exit.

For the other car to travel 300 feet (otherwise you would have seen it) in the same 3 seconds it took you to get to the exit (otherwise it would have been behind you) the math says the car would need to be traveling between 50mph and 75mph through the RAB (and possibly from a standing start at the Stillwater gate).

I just traveled that same route on Morse heading south about 15 minutes ago. I think I recall better now what happened. The guy who cut me off was probably traveling south on Morse behind me in the left lane as I traveled south in the right lane. As I entered the RAB at 6 in the outside lane, he entered the RAB at 6 in the inside lane right behind me. I entered the RAB before him. He sped up to exit at 3 in front of me and rather than staying in his lane, he cut me off to get in front of me in my lane. It really doesn't matter if he switched lanes or not, he still would have cut me off as he sped up to exit in front of me at 3. I was heading to 12 to go straight. That is when I jammed on my brakes to avoid the collision. I think that explains it as best I can.

He was wrong.

[margaretmattson]

I just traveled that same route on Morse heading south about 15 minutes ago. I think I recall better now what happened. The guy who cut me off was probably traveling south on Morse behind me in the left lane as I traveled south in the right lane. As I entered the RAB at 6 in the outside lane, he entered the RAB at 6 in the inside lane right behind me. I entered the RAB before him. He sped up to exit at 3 in front of me and rather than staying in his lane, he cut me off to get in front of me in my lane. It really doesn't matter if he switched lanes or not, he still would have cut me off as he sped up to exit in front of me at 3. I was heading to 12 to go straight. That is when I jammed on my brakes to avoid the collision. I think that explains it as best I can.

He was wrong.I still find that hard to believe. I do not know the lengths of the vehicles but it would have to be a crazy maneuver to pass, swerve from the left, and exit right, if you entered first. Travelling from 6 o'clock to 3 is a short distance. I think one poster stated it takes 3 seconds to travel that distance. But, maybe you are a very slow driver.

[Bill14564]

I just traveled that same route on Morse heading south about 15 minutes ago. I think I recall better now what happened. The guy who cut me off was probably traveling south on Morse behind me in the left lane as I traveled south in the right lane. As I entered the RAB at 6 in the outside lane, he entered the RAB at 6 in the inside lane right behind me. I entered the RAB before him. He sped up to exit at 3 in front of me and rather than staying in his lane, he cut me off to get in front of me in my lane. It really doesn't matter if he switched lanes or not, he still would have cut me off as he sped up to exit in front of me at 3. I was heading to 12 to go straight. That is when I jammed on my brakes to avoid the collision. I think that explains it as best I can.

He was wrong.

That seems more likely and yes, he was wrong.

[coffeebean]

I still find that hard to believe. I do not know the lengths of the vehicles but it would have to be a crazy maneuver to pass you and swerve left to exit, if you entered first. Travelling from 6 o'clock to 3 is a short distance. I think one poster stated it takes 3 seconds to travel that distance. But, maybe you are a very slow driver.
The guy didn't swerve left, he changed lanes from the inside lane to the outside lane. That maneuver is to "swerve" right. I hope I explained myself correctly.

[coffeebean]

That seems more likely and yes, he was wrong.

I must say that 99.5% of the times I have traversed RABs, I have had no problems at all. It is usually uneventful and I feel very safe in the RABs.

[margaretmattson]

The guy didn't swerve left, he changed lanes from the inside lane to the outside lane. That maneuver is to "swerve" right. I hope I explained myself correctly.I meant he had to swerve from the left lane to pass you and then exit. But, if you want to use the wording he swerved right, it is still the same timing.

Your car enters the RAB. You previviously said the 2nd car came out of nowhere which means it was some distance behind you. The second vehicle had to speed up significantly to pass you from the left lane. Then maneuver the length of his vehicle to cross your path and exit right without striking you. He had to do this within 3 seconds if you were travelling normal speed. Instead, you had to be driving very slowly for this to happen.

If this is the case, the driver in the 2nd vehicle was a lunatic. There is no need to speed up and pass a vehicle from the left lane to exit right. When in the left lane, slow down, drive around the inner circle, then exit safely. Hence the name, roundabout.

[coffeebean]

I meant he had to swerve from the left lane to pass you and then exit. But, if you want to use the wording he swerved right, it is still the same timing.

Your car enters the RAB. You previviously said the 2nd car came out of nowhere which means it was some distance behind you. The second vehicle had to speed up significantly to pass you from the left lane. Then maneuver the length of his vehicle to exit right without striking you. He had to do this within 3 seconds if you were travelling normal speed. Instead, you had to be driving very slowly for this to happen.

If this is the case, the driver in the 2nd vehicle was a lunatic. Most would drive the inner circle at a safe speed, then exit. There is no need to pass another vehicle from the left lane to exit right.

The guy may have wanted to be in the right lane to make the right turn into the Winn Dixie parking lot. That is my best guess. He must have entered the RAB right behind me. If I didn't look in my rear view mirror at that moment, then I didn't see him until he nearly collided with me.