Key Takeaways
Before you enter a roundabout: slow down and read the signs—your rule: “Slow = Safe”.
If your exit is the first one (a right turn), use the right lane.
If you’re going straight (second exit), enter via the right or centre lane and proceed.
For a left turn or full loop (third exit or more), use the left lane upon entry.
While inside: stay in your lane, don’t cross needlessly, and wait to signal until you near your exit.
As you approach your exit: signal right, check your mirror, and exit smoothly.
If you hesitate or miss your exit: do not cut across traffic—just go around again and exit safely on the next opportunity.
Your mantra: “Slow, signalling, no rush—one extra loop is always better than an abrupt stop.”
Story & Details
Setting the scene
Imagine arriving at a roundabout. Traffic flows in from multiple directions. A quick glance at signs and the road ahead gives you the moment to breathe, decide your exit, and slow accordingly.
Choosing your lane
If you’re taking the first exit on the right, you pick the rightmost lane early. That choice keeps things clear. If you’re going straight ahead for the second exit, you may use either the right or centre lane depending on signage and road markings. If instead you’re heading for a left turn or full loop, you choose the left lane on entry.
These lane-choices resolve a lot of uncertainty before you ever enter the circular intersection.
Inside the roundabout
Once you’re inside, lane changes are discouraged unless absolutely necessary. You maintain your lane, stay attentive, and hold off signalling until you’re near your exit. This consistency helps other drivers recognise your intention.
Exiting safely
As the exit approaches, you activate your right-turn indicator, check your mirror and your blind side, then steer gently out. Predictable behaviour matters more than speed.
What if you’re unsure?
Maybe you enter and find yourself in the wrong lane. Maybe you hesitate on entry. In that moment, skip the stress: don’t make a dangerous cut. Instead continue around the roundabout and use the next exit to re-orient. One extra loop beats confusion or a sudden stop every time.
The mantra in action
It’s not just technique—it’s mindset. You drive with calm, clarity, and readiness. Think: “Slow, signalling, no rush.” That little phrase encapsulates your approach. You can memorise it, carry it in your mind, and refer to it before you approach the next roundabout.
Conclusions
Roundabouts need not be stressful. With the right approach—slow down, pick your lane, stay steady, signal correctly, and accept an extra loop if necessary—you bring clarity and safety to an often chaotic junction.
This is your simple routine. Calm, controlled, and confident.
Sources
“How to use a roundabout” – City of Ottawa (YouTube)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46mOPz3rhHs
“7 Rules of Roundabouts” – Ottawa Safety Council
https://www.ottawasafetycouncil.ca/7-rules-of-roundabouts/
“Roundabout” – Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roundabout
Appendix
Exit – A road leaving the circular intersection.
Indicator / Signal – The vehicle’s turn-light used to show intent.
Lane – A marked portion of the roadway where traffic flows in the same direction.
Mirror check – The act of glancing in the side and rear-view mirrors to assess surrounding traffic.
Roundabout – A circular intersection where traffic flows in one direction around a central island.
Slow = Safe – A mental rule emphasising that reducing speed improves reaction time and decision-making.
My Diary - Leonardo Cardillo 