Traffic Circle Speed Limits

[Gil Chapin]

Perhaps this has been covered (probably many times), but I didn't find it.

As one approaches most traffic circles, there is usually a traffic sign with a yellow diamond containing a traffic circle indicator above a typical speed limit sign, indicating a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.

It seems that most people loosely interpret those signs to mean the speed limit within the traffic circle is 20 mph.

Another interpretation might be that the speed limit sign is indeed a "normal" speed limit sign. By normal, I mean that it indicates the start of a new speed limit. In this case, the speed limit changes at the sign from 35 mph to 20 mph. That means that once the sign is passed the speed limit is immediately 20 mph, not only within the traffic circle, but also on the approach to the traffic circle at any point past the sign. That further implies that one must be doing no more than 20 mph when the speed limit sign is passed until another speed limit sign changes the speed limit again.

My observations suggest that no one, except me, has ever considered the latter interpretation, and many drivers barely make it into the 20s as they enter the traffic circle, with others never slowing down at all.

I realize this is a question for law enforcement, but I'm curious whether anyone else has wondered about this.

Gil Chapin

[CarlR33]

Per Ai below. Having said that have you ever wondered why there is always that semi truck that overturns on a curve with a suggested yellow speed sign all around the curve?
“A yellow speed limit sign indicates an advisory speed, meaning it's a suggested safe speed for a specific condition, not a legally enforceable speed limit. These signs are typically used to warn drivers of hazards like curves, construction zones, or areas with reduced visibility. While not a legal requirement, exceeding the advisory speed and causing an accident could lead to liability for the driver.”

[Bill14564]

Per Ai below. Having said that have you ever wondered why there is always that semi truck that overturns on a curve with a suggested yellow speed sign all around the curve?
“A yellow speed limit sign indicates an advisory speed, meaning it's a suggested safe speed for a specific condition, not a legally enforceable speed limit. These signs are typically used to warn drivers of hazards like curves, construction zones, or areas with reduced visibility. While not a legal requirement, exceeding the advisory speed and causing an accident could lead to liability for the driver.”

The speed limit sign is standard black and white. The yellow sign is a warning that the circle is ahead.

The question is whether the combination indicates the speed limit is 20mph only within the circle or whether it becomes 20mph at the sign? I haven’t really worried about it.

[golfing eagles]

The speed limit sign is standard black and white. The yellow sign is a warning that the circle is ahead.

The question is whether the combination indicates the speed limit is 20mph only within the circle or whether it becomes 20mph at the sign? I haven’t really worried about it.

Who cares??? You are merely asking how quickly or how far in advance one must slow down. I doubt anyone is going 35 right up to the point of entering the RB anyway.

[Bogie Shooter]

I wonder if the rain will stop by 7PM:duck:

[Taltarzac725]

Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions (https://share.google/S1box8JFpZ8x81lxn)


This kind of addresses this .

[CarlR33]

I wonder if the rain will stop by 7PM:duck:If not the limit should be around 10 mph.

[fdpaq0580]

Who cares??? You are merely asking how quickly or how far in advance one must slow down. I doubt anyone is going 35 right up to the point of entering the RB anyway.

Happens often. Yesterday, nearing a RB in right lane at 35, a car sped around me at high (45-50?), cut in front of me in the right lane. No sign of slowing, braking pushing in ahead of car coming around. He went straight ahead into the center lane, then cut back to the right lane to exit. Basically "straighten out the curve" of the traffic circle. These are community streets and roads, not race courses.
One incident I know, but we see idiots behind the wheel every time we go out. Can't wait for ai/robot chauffeur where every cyberdriver has the same safe view of every situation.

[thevillages2013]

If not the limit should be around 10 mph.

If you drive the traffic circles at 10 mph then you are part of the problem not part of the solution. I try to get in and out of a roundabout as quickly as possible driving as close to 20 mph as possible. Also , all the turn signals being used improperly in the traffic circles is overwhelming. If you are in the proper lane for your exit there is no need for the use of blinkers. If you trust someone’s turn signal in a roundabout you’re rolling the dice!

[Berwin]

Having been a deputy sheriff, I can say that, in Arkansas at least (where I was a LEO), the speed limit is in effect at the sign. I've known other LEOs who were sticklers for this (running up their ticket score) and others who were a lot more lenient and let you coast down to the limit once you passed the sign as long as it was safe.

[Rocksnap]

Traffic circles have speed limits? I’m a whole lot more worried about those that change lanes while IN the circle. Twice recently other cars not staying in their lane and trying to take me out while in the circle. Meaning, them changing lanes while in the circle. A clear violation, where is Popo when you need them?

[mikreb]

I believe the 20mph is for the roundabout, because there is no speed limit sign when exiting the roundabout indicating that you can resume 35mph.

[NoMo50]

According to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which has been adopted by all 50 states, speed limit signs are to be rectangular in shape, with black markings on a white background. These are the only "speed limit" signs that are enforceable. Any other sign relating to speed, yellow for example, are advisory only and cannot be enforced as a violation.

[golfing eagles]

If not the limit should be around 10 mph.

How about 5?? How about 2???? How about you have to get out of your car and push it around the RB????? :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Happens often. Yesterday, nearing a RB in right lane at 35, a car sped around me at high (45-50?), cut in front of me in the right lane. No sign of slowing, braking pushing in ahead of car coming around. He went straight ahead into the center lane, then cut back to the right lane to exit. Basically "straighten out the curve" of the traffic circle. These are community streets and roads, not race courses.
One incident I know, but we see idiots behind the wheel every time we go out. Can't wait for ai/robot chauffeur where every cyberdriver has the same safe view of every situation.

No surprise. Remember, whatever rule you make, reasonable or ridiculous, or sign that is put up, there will always be idiots doing something stupid

[Topspinmo]

Happens often. Yesterday, nearing a RB in right lane at 35, a car sped around me at high (45-50?), cut in front of me in the right lane. No sign of slowing, braking pushing in ahead of car coming around. He went straight ahead into the center lane, then cut back to the right lane to exit. Basically "straighten out the curve" of the traffic circle. These are community streets and roads, not race courses.
One incident I know, but we see idiots behind the wheel every time we go out. Can't wait for ai/robot chauffeur where every cyberdriver has the same safe view of every situation.

He was traffic violator and should got ticket…. Yep, hardly nobody get traffic violation in villages that’s why the violators drive like Indy car drivers.

[Topspinmo]

Traffic circles have speed limits? I’m a whole lot more worried about those that change lanes while IN the circle. Twice recently other cars not staying in their lane and trying to take me out while in the circle. Meaning, them changing lanes while in the circle. A clear violation, where is Popo when you need them?

I like the ones that stop before entering roundabout with NO traffic in sight looking to left. These are probably same ones that don’t stop at stop signs or pull put into intersection before A driver only has to yield to all traffic coming around roundabout not stop then look, should have been looking before you get there. Then there ones that stay in right lane going to 3rd exit total idiots looking to get hit or cause accident.

[Topspinmo]

Perhaps this has been covered (probably many times), but I didn't find it.

As one approaches most traffic circles, there is usually a traffic sign with a yellow diamond containing a traffic circle indicator above a typical speed limit sign, indicating a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.

It seems that most people loosely interpret those signs to mean the speed limit within the traffic circle is 20 mph.

Another interpretation might be that the speed limit sign is indeed a "normal" speed limit sign. By normal, I mean that it indicates the start of a new speed limit. In this case, the speed limit changes at the sign from 35 mph to 20 mph. That means that once the sign is passed the speed limit is immediately 20 mph, not only within the traffic circle, but also on the approach to the traffic circle at any point past the sign. That further implies that one must be doing no more than 20 mph when the speed limit sign is passed until another speed limit sign changes the speed limit again.

My observations suggest that no one, except me, has ever considered the latter interpretation, and many drivers barely make it into the 20s as they enter the traffic circle, with others never slowing down at all.

I realize this is a question for law enforcement, but I'm curious whether anyone else has wondered about this.

Gil Chapin

No, my interpretation slow down approaching roundabout, 20 MPH maximum in roundabout, and resume speed limit after roundabout unless otherwise posted.

[Captainpd]

Happens often. Yesterday, nearing a RB in right lane at 35, a car sped around me at high (45-50?), cut in front of me in the right lane. No sign of slowing, braking pushing in ahead of car coming around. He went straight ahead into the center lane, then cut back to the right lane to exit. Basically "straighten out the curve" of the traffic circle. These are community streets and roads, not race courses.
One incident I know, but we see idiots behind the wheel every time we go out. Can't wait for ai/robot chauffeur where every cyberdriver has the same safe view of every situation.

And I thought no one saw me..

[jimkerr]

People actually worry about roundabout speed limits? Just move and get outta there! Don’t overthink it.

[talonip]

I live in St John. When approaching the okahumka RB from the north and taking the third exit to the Okuhumka gate, cars approaching the RB from the south are traveling at high speeds exceeding 50.

Who has the right of way sir?
Is the approaching and speeding vehicle or the vehicle in the RB? I have had to stop for these jerks playing chicken. In the last month there have been two accidents at the exit from this RB. So I care about speeding traffic approaching the RBS.

[Rodneysblue]

I wonder if the rain will stop by 7PM:duck:

And if the Costco will open soon.

[MicRoDrafting]

Having been a deputy sheriff, I can say that, in Arkansas at least (where I was a LEO), the speed limit is in effect at the sign. I've known other LEOs who were sticklers for this (running up their ticket score) and others who were a lot more lenient and let you coast down to the limit once you passed the sign as long as it was safe.

RESPECTFULLY
I disagree with slowing
down to 20 mph at the sign.

the MUTCD, FDOT and IMSA classify this Yellow Background w Black Lettering Diamond shaped type of SIGN as “Advisory”, aka: a Warning to Traffic Conditions the motorist is Approaching, and …

… the Fact that there is a diagram of a Roundabout above the [advised] speed limit provides the reason for this posted sign.

this is NOT an opinion:
Presently Employed as

Transportation Engineering Technician Class II
City of Ocala Engineer’s Office
w “IMSA Traffic and Signage” Certification

[Lancer]

As the officer said to me as he was handing me my ticket, “you can’t go through the door until you open it.” In other words the speed limit starts at the sign.

[LoveGolfing]

There is nothing wrong with roundabouts, the problem is too many people not knowing how to drive in them. Making a right turn into a village from the left lane and cutting in front of someone in the right lane is totally unacceptable.

[BubblesandPat]

Happens often. Yesterday, nearing a RB in right lane at 35, a car sped around me at high (45-50?), cut in front of me in the right lane. No sign of slowing, braking pushing in ahead of car coming around. He went straight ahead into the center lane, then cut back to the right lane to exit. Basically "straighten out the curve" of the traffic circle. These are community streets and roads, not race courses.
One incident I know, but we see idiots behind the wheel every time we go out. Can't wait for ai/robot chauffeur where every cyberdriver has the same safe view of every situation.

I see this all the time. People driving in the center (using both lanes) around the roundabout to "straighten " it. Very dangerous. I dont get the hurry. Meggison road over near Lake Okahumpka seems to be a fun "challenge " for many...they try to see how fast they can go around the curves. I've seen people go at least 70. Im a sure one day we will see someone lose control and land on the golfcart path. Never seen a cop on that road and I travel it everyday.

[sowilts]

Perhaps this has been covered (probably many times), but I didn't find it.

As one approaches most traffic circles, there is usually a traffic sign with a yellow diamond containing a traffic circle indicator above a typical speed limit sign, indicating a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.

It seems that most people loosely interpret those signs to mean the speed limit within the traffic circle is 20 mph.

Another interpretation might be that the speed limit sign is indeed a "normal" speed limit sign. By normal, I mean that it indicates the start of a new speed limit. In this case, the speed limit changes at the sign from 35 mph to 20 mph. That means that once the sign is passed the speed limit is immediately 20 mph, not only within the traffic circle, but also on the approach to the traffic circle at any point past the sign. That further implies that one must be doing no more than 20 mph when the speed limit sign is passed until another speed limit sign changes the speed limit again.

My observations suggest that no one, except me, has ever considered the latter interpretation, and many drivers barely make it into the 20s as they enter the traffic circle, with others never slowing down at all.

I realize this is a question for law enforcement, but I'm curious whether anyone else has wondered about this.

Gil Chapin
My Vehicle reads the warning signs and start to slow down. Once the white speed limit is in view slows down to posted speed limit. Excellent feature for School zones.

[Bill14564]

RESPECTFULLY
I disagree with slowing
down to 20 mph at the sign.

the MUTCD, FDOT and IMSA classify this Yellow Background w Black Lettering Diamond shaped type of SIGN as “Advisory”, aka: a Warning to Traffic Conditions the motorist is Approaching, and …

… the Fact that there is a diagram of a Roundabout above the [advised] speed limit provides the reason for this posted sign.

this is NOT an opinion:
Presently Employed as

Transportation Engineering Technician Class II
City of Ocala Engineer’s Office
w “IMSA Traffic and Signage” Certification

What is your “NOT an opinion” of the situation we have where the speed limit sign is black and white?

[crash]

Perhaps this has been covered (probably many times), but I didn't find it.

As one approaches most traffic circles, there is usually a traffic sign with a yellow diamond containing a traffic circle indicator above a typical speed limit sign, indicating a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.

It seems that most people loosely interpret those signs to mean the speed limit within the traffic circle is 20 mph.

Another interpretation might be that the speed limit sign is indeed a "normal" speed limit sign. By normal, I mean that it indicates the start of a new speed limit. In this case, the speed limit changes at the sign from 35 mph to 20 mph. That means that once the sign is passed the speed limit is immediately 20 mph, not only within the traffic circle, but also on the approach to the traffic circle at any point past the sign. That further implies that one must be doing no more than 20 mph when the speed limit sign is passed until another speed limit sign changes the speed limit again.

My observations suggest that no one, except me, has ever considered the latter interpretation, and many drivers barely make it into the 20s as they enter the traffic circle, with others never slowing down at all.

I realize this is a question for law enforcement, but I'm curious whether anyone else has wondered about this.

Gil Chapin

Haven’t worried about it but believe your interpretation of it is wrong. Within the traffic circle the speed limit is 20 mph and then back to the speed limit on the street which is 35 mph.

[CybrSage]

Who has the right of way sir?
Is the approaching and speeding vehicle or the vehicle in the RB?

Circles are inside out. Assuming a two land circle, the inside land, number 1 lane, gets the right of way. It must be this way, else the car in lane 1 may be stuck in that lane for a long time if there is traffic.
The outside land, number 2 lane, must yield to lane 1 but has the right of way over traffic outside the circle.
Lastly, outside the circle must yield to both lanes inside the circle. In that way, it is like an on-ramp for a highway.

The dotted lines in the circle show where lane 1 can exit, crossing over lane 2. All lanes should signal their exists, like on all other parts of the road, but it is especially important when there are cars in the other lanes and/or waiting to enter.

[CybrSage]

I've seen people go at least 70.

No you have not. Cars in the Tour de France take corners at an average speed of 25 mph, and they are designed for cornering.
70 mph is a ridiculous speed to claim. 40 maybe, if the care is designed with little or no lean like a Mini Cooper, but absolutely not 70.

[fdpaq0580]

I live in St John. When approaching the okahumka RB from the north and taking the third exit to the Okuhumka gate, cars approaching the RB from the south are traveling at high speeds exceeding 50.

Who has the right of way sir?
Is the approaching and speeding vehicle or the vehicle in the RB? I have had to stop for these jerks playing chicken. In the last month there have been two accidents at the exit from this RB. So I care about speeding traffic approaching the RBS.

You are right to be concerned! Speeders, tailgaters, and others seem to like showing off their idiocy and lack of consideration or respect for others by trying to intimidate others. They intentionally put others at risk, often for their very lives.

[fdpaq0580]

People actually worry about roundabout speed limits? Just move and get outta there! Don’t overthink it.

Yes, serious individuals do realize that the 20 mph caution is there because that is what is recommended safe speed is for the average car/driver under optimum conditions. Just like posted speed limits are for average car/driver under optimum condition. You can go slower for safety under less than good conditions (darkness, fog, rain, snow, etc.)! But, only authorized emergency responders (police, fire/rescue, ambulance) may exceed the posted legal speed limit in performance of their duties. Driving is potentially deadly. Don't under think it!

[fdpaq0580]

My Vehicle reads the warning signs and start to slow down. Once the white speed limit is in view slows down to posted speed limit. Excellent feature for School zones.

Sadly, most don't have that feature.

[annecobb]

Perhaps this has been covered (probably many times), but I didn't find it.

As one approaches most traffic circles, there is usually a traffic sign with a yellow diamond containing a traffic circle indicator above a typical speed limit sign, indicating a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.

It seems that most people loosely interpret those signs to mean the speed limit within the traffic circle is 20 mph.

Another interpretation might be that the speed limit sign is indeed a "normal" speed limit sign. By normal, I mean that it indicates the start of a new speed limit. In this case, the speed limit changes at the sign from 35 mph to 20 mph. That means that once the sign is passed the speed limit is immediately 20 mph, not only within the traffic circle, but also on the approach to the traffic circle at any point past the sign. That further implies that one must be doing no more than 20 mph when the speed limit sign is passed until another speed limit sign changes the speed limit again.

My observations suggest that no one, except me, has ever considered the latter interpretation, and many drivers barely make it into the 20s as they enter the traffic circle, with others never slowing down at all.

I realize this is a question for law enforcement, but I'm curious whether anyone else has wondered about this.

Gil Chapin



Many speed signs seem to be "suggestions". What I am concerned about is the level of traffic noise which has been amplified by the reduction of natural sound barriers such as trees which have been cleared. But more importantly, there are folks with cars that have added exhaust sound enhancers, exhaust sound roarers, exhaust sound speakers for the individual that wants to sound like they are at NASCAR. I don't understand why we need mufflers with all these accessories of noise. It is disenchanting that this goes unchallenged because I have noticed several cars just cruising with these accessories. Florida mufflers are suppose to be around 68 decibels but this exceeds this as well. And I would imagine no one is interested in enforcing this.

[Altavia]

What is your “NOT an opinion” of the situation we have where the speed limit sign is black and white?

I'm confused also???

[Jalane]

I like the ones that stop before entering roundabout with NO traffic in sight looking to left. These are probably same ones that don’t stop at stop signs or pull put into intersection before they stop. Way roundabout efficient driver only has to yield to all traffic coming around roundabout not stop then look, should have been looking before you get there. Then there ones that stay in right lane going to 3rd exit total idiots looking to get hit or cause accident.

I think people stay in the right lane (instead of using the left lane when entering a RB and planning to exit at the 3rd exit) because people complain when a car crosses in front of them from them to exit at the 3rd exit.

[Jalane]

Perhaps this has been covered (probably many times), but I didn't find it.

As one approaches most traffic circles, there is usually a traffic sign with a yellow diamond containing a traffic circle indicator above a typical speed limit sign, indicating a speed limit of 20 miles per hour.

It seems that most people loosely interpret those signs to mean the speed limit within the traffic circle is 20 mph.

Another interpretation might be that the speed limit sign is indeed a "normal" speed limit sign. By normal, I mean that it indicates the start of a new speed limit. In this case, the speed limit changes at the sign from 35 mph to 20 mph. That means that once the sign is passed the speed limit is immediately 20 mph, not only within the traffic circle, but also on the approach to the traffic circle at any point past the sign. That further implies that one must be doing no more than 20 mph when the speed limit sign is passed until another speed limit sign changes the speed limit again.

My observations suggest that no one, except me, has ever considered the latter interpretation, and many drivers barely make it into the 20s as they enter the traffic circle, with others never slowing down at all.

I realize this is a question for law enforcement, but I'm curious whether anyone else has wondered about this.

Gil Chapin

One of our car's features is that it recognizes speed limit signs and automatically adjusts the car's speed. It automatically slows to 20 when it passes that sign and increases when it passes the speed limit sign after exiting the RB.

[Bill14564]

One of our car's features is that it recognizes speed limit signs and automatically adjusts the car's speed. It automatically slows to 20 when it passes that sign and increases when it passes the speed limit sign after exiting the RB.

Now that’s one feature I *really* don’t like…. ever since the time I was driving on the highway at 60mph and it picked up the 20mph sign on the frontage road. That was not fun.

[golfing eagles]

RESPECTFULLY
I disagree with slowing
down to 20 mph at the sign.

the MUTCD, FDOT and IMSA classify this Yellow Background w Black Lettering Diamond shaped type of SIGN as “Advisory”, aka: a Warning to Traffic Conditions the motorist is Approaching, and …

… the Fact that there is a diagram of a Roundabout above the [advised] speed limit provides the reason for this posted sign.

this is NOT an opinion:
Presently Employed as

Transportation Engineering Technician Class II
City of Ocala Engineer’s Office
w “IMSA Traffic and Signage” Certification

Yes, the yellow sign is "warning" that you are approaching a RB. The black on white rectangular speed limit sign is just that---an official and legal speed limit, which technically begins at the sign. And that is not "an opinion", that is the law. And I am not certified in "IMSA Traffic and Signage". Would you have felt better if they didn't put the two signs on the same pole but different ones?

[MandoMan]

Per Ai below. Having said that have you ever wondered why there is always that semi truck that overturns on a curve with a suggested yellow speed sign all around the curve?
“A yellow speed limit sign indicates an advisory speed, meaning it's a suggested safe speed for a specific condition, not a legally enforceable speed limit. These signs are typically used to warn drivers of hazards like curves, construction zones, or areas with reduced visibility. While not a legal requirement, exceeding the advisory speed and causing an accident could lead to liability for the driver.”

I usually take roundabouts at 20 mph, as I understand that to be the speed limit. I don’t recall seeing anyone take them faster. I stay strictly in the marked lane for where I want to go. Some people try to straighten out the curve by cutting into other lanes. That’s lazy, and it’s a bad idea. I would way that it would be unsafe to take those curves faster than 20 mph, assuming people stay in their lanes.

[Taltarzac725]

I usually take roundabouts at 20 mph, as I understand that to be the speed limit. I don’t recall seeing anyone take them faster. I stay strictly in the marked lane for where I want to go. Some people try to straighten out the curve by cutting into other lanes. That’s lazy, and it’s a bad idea. I would way that it would be unsafe to take those curves faster than 20 mph, assuming people stay in their lanes.

I did see a dumped over dump truck years ago on Buena Vista going south near the entrance to Tall Trees. It took a dump.

[Topspinmo]

I think people stay in the right lane (instead of using the left lane when entering a RB and planning to exit at the 3rd exit) because people complain when a car crosses in front of them from them to exit at the 3rd exit.

Yes, If in right lane going to turn at first or second exit, nobody will be cutting them off, only when they try to go to 3rd exit it big problem IF traffic in circle.

[CybrSage]

If you drive the traffic circles at 10 mph then you are part of the problem not part of the solution. I try to get in and out of a roundabout as quickly as possible driving as close to 20 mph as possible. Also , all the turn signals being used improperly in the traffic circles is overwhelming. If you are in the proper lane for your exit there is no need for the use of blinkers. If you trust someone’s turn signal in a roundabout you’re rolling the dice!

Turn signals are required by law when making a turn. That is the most likely reason some people use them.
A good use is by Lane 1. When they need to exit a two lane circle, they must cross over Lane 2 to exit. A turn signal tells anyone in Lane 2 that they must slow down and let him exit the circle since Lane 1 has the right of way.
The above is for the two lane circles with both lanes having the ability to exit when "going straight".

[CybrSage]

But more importantly, there are folks with cars that have added exhaust sound enhancers, exhaust sound roarers, exhaust sound speakers for the individual that wants to sound like they are at NASCAR. I don't understand why we need mufflers with all these accessories of noise. It is disenchanting that this goes unchallenged because I have noticed several cars just cruising with these accessories. Florida mufflers are suppose to be around 68 decibels but this exceeds this as well. And I would imagine no one is interested in enforcing this.

For the same reason the older generations use glass packs and cherry bombs.

[Bill14564]

Turn signals are required by law when making a turn. That is the most likely reason some people use them.
A good use is by Lane 1. When they need to exit a two lane circle, they must cross over Lane 2 to exit. A turn signal tells anyone in Lane 2 that they must slow down and let him exit the circle since Lane 1 has the right of way.
The above is for the two lane circles with both lanes having the ability to exit when "going straight".

Neither lane has the right of way. Both drivers have an obligation to avoid an accident.

Importantly, if both drivers are driving properly then there will be no conflict, no right of way to yield, and no potential accident to avoid. If they are not driving properly then all bets are off.

I wonder if any research has been done to compare accidents resulting from the lack of use of turn signals with accidents resulting from trusting a turn signal that had not been turned off.

[golfing eagles]

Neither lane has the right of way. Both drivers have an obligation to avoid an accident.

Importantly, if both drivers are driving properly then there will be no conflict, no right of way to yield, and no potential accident to avoid. If they are not driving properly then all bets are off.

I wonder if any research has been done to compare accidents resulting from the lack of use of turn signals with accidents resulting from trusting a turn signal that had not been turned off.

That would be a great study. While I use my turn signals in a RB, I don't trust anyone else's turn signal and I don't expect anyone to trust mine.

[fdpaq0580]

Neither lane has the right of way. Both drivers have an obligation to avoid an accident.

Importantly, if both drivers are driving properly then there will be no conflict, no right of way to yield, and no potential accident to avoid. If they are not driving properly then all bets are off.

I wonder if any research has been done to compare accidents resulting from the lack of use of turn signals with accidents resulting from trusting a turn signal that had not been turned off.

Maybe you could get a government grant for the study?

[Topspinmo]

There is nothing wrong with roundabouts, the problem is too many people not knowing how to drive in them. Making a right turn into a village from the left lane and cutting in front of someone in the right lane is totally unacceptable.

Vehicles in roundabout has right of way. Vehicle approaching roundabout HAS to yeild to ALL traffic in roundabout. The vehicle in right outside lane either entered roundabout without yielding to ALL traffic in roundabout or vehicle in right (outside lane was going to third exit which is wrong why got cut off. Think about it. If you yeild to all traffic and in right lane exit at first or second exit that situation will should never happen.

[Bill14564]

Vehicles in roundabout has right of way. Vehicle approaching roundabout HAS to yeild to ALL traffic in roundabout. The vehicle in right outside lane either entered roundabout without yielding to ALL traffic in roundabout or vehicle in right (outside lane was going to third exit which is wrong why got cut off. Think about it. If you yeild to all traffic and in right lane exit at first or second exit that situation will should never happen.

One way it *could* happen: Vehicle in the outside races into the circle and overtakes the vehicle already in the inside lane. The vehicle in the outside lane (the one that is overtaking) would still be at fault for causing the conflict.

[Marathon Man]

I believe the 20mph is for the roundabout, because there is no speed limit sign when exiting the roundabout indicating that you can resume 35mph.

I went through several roundabouts this morning. Every one of them had a sign after exiting that restored the speed limit to 35.

[Topspinmo]

One way it *could* happen: Vehicle in the outside races into the circle and overtakes the vehicle already in the inside lane. The vehicle in the outside lane (the one that is overtaking) would still be at fault for causing the conflict.

Broke the yield rule. Racing in not yielding and cutting off traffic in roundabout.

[Gil Chapin]

Thanks for the responses to my original post.

For what it's worth, I try to make sure I'm going at no more than 20 mph as I enter the roundabout (that sign is not a suggestion), but I don't daudle in the roundabout - I maintain that 20 mph until after I exit in the appropriate lane (usually the one in which I used the roundabout). Although I believe the 20 mph speed limit on the approach means 20 mph at the sign, I feel the signs are too far ahead of the roundabout entry and would slow traffic more than necessary. I also feel that the primary purpose of a roundabout is to provide equal opportunity for entry from all directions, which requires that all approaching vehicles be prepared to enter at a speed of no more than 20 mph. It seems to me as if those using the "main" roads don't observe this as much as they should.

Many folks seem so intent on getting where they're going that they somehow miss those great big green signs that tell them which lane to use. Many others change lanes as they exit. Why not change lanes after you exit?

My own simple-minded rule that I try to follow is never to be in a roundabout next to another vehicle. That has served me well so far.

I tend to signal my intentions whenever I'm going to do something I'm not already doing. I wore out the turn signal switch in my previous vehicle, but I managed to replace it without triggering the airbag.

I'm only aware of one roundabout that doesn't have a 35 mph speed limit sign after exiting (where the normal speed limit is 35 mph), and that may be an oversight or the result of not yet replacing one that was damaged.

It's interesting to see others' opinions on matters like this. We've probably beaten it to death by now.

[jimhoward]

Vehicles in roundabout has right of way. Vehicle approaching roundabout HAS to yeild to ALL traffic in roundabout. The vehicle in right outside lane either entered roundabout without yielding to ALL traffic in roundabout or vehicle in right (outside lane was going to third exit which is wrong why got cut off. Think about it. If you yeild to all traffic and in right lane exit at first or second exit that situation will should never happen.

You just described the two most common errors made by drivers in the outside lane of a RB. It happens continually every single day. I have learned to expect those things to happen and drive accordingly.

[fdpaq0580]

You just described the two most common errors made by drivers in the outside lane of a RB. It happens continually every single day. I have learned to expect those things to happen and drive accordingly.

Just goes to show how many idiots there are living among us. Be afraid. Be very afraid! Drive accordingly!

[Marathon Man]

There is nothing wrong with roundabouts, the problem is too many people not knowing how to drive in them. Making a right turn into a village from the left lane and cutting in front of someone in the right lane is totally unacceptable.

This is too funny.

[Topspinmo]

This is too funny.

You caught that too….

[WiseSpender]

No you have not. Cars in the Tour de France take corners at an average speed of 25 mph, and they are designed for cornering.
70 mph is a ridiculous speed to claim. 40 maybe, if the care is designed with little or no lean like a Mini Cooper, but absolutely not 70.

I agree, it is nearly impossible to even take the curve at 35mph (except maybe a Corvette). I myself drive a small Chevy Spark and can barely keep 25mph through the entire roundabout without the car tires losing grip and drifting away from my intended lane.

Even with my heavier electric car (Chevy Bolt) can barely take the roundabout at 23mph.

NO WAY a car can do 70mph in a roundabout!

[Whatnext]

This is too funny.

Sums it all up really.

[jimbomaybe]

Traffic circles have speed limits? I’m a whole lot more worried about those that change lanes while IN the circle. Twice recently other cars not staying in their lane and trying to take me out while in the circle. Meaning, them changing lanes while in the circle. A clear violation, where is Popo when you need them?
My favorite is the people who flatten out the circle , entering in the outside lane , move to inside lane in the circle then exit in the outside lane

[golfing eagles]

My favorite is the people who flatten out the circle , entering in the outside lane , move to inside lane in the circle then exit in the outside lane

What's even more fun is when they clip the inside curb with their driver's side wheels. They're the same driver's that cross 10 feet into oncoming traffic to pass a golf cart in the cart lane or come near the inside curb when making a left turn

[BPRICE1234]

The best thing to do is enter the roundabout at about 45 mph, change lanes several times, then act like everyone else is the problem. Just my bit of sarcasm.

[fdpaq0580]

The best thing to do is enter the roundabout at about 45 mph, change lanes several times, then act like everyone else is the problem. Just my bit of sarcasm.

I thought you were serious! I see it all the time.