How to Drive Through Roundabouts __ Driving Lesson to Pass A Road Test

Driving through roundabouts can be intimidating for beginners, but with the right techniques and preparation, you can confidently navigate them and succeed during your road test. Here's a guide:

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### **How to Drive Through Roundabouts: Step-by-Step**

#### **1. Understand the Roundabout**
- **Purpose:** Roundabouts reduce traffic congestion and improve safety by keeping vehicles moving in a circular pattern.
- **Rules:** Always travel counterclockwise and yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.

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#### **2. Approach the Roundabout**
- **Slow Down:** Reduce your speed as you approach the roundabout. Most roundabouts have speed limits between 15–25 mph.
- **Choose the Correct Lane:**
- Follow signs or road markings indicating which lane to use for your desired exit.
- Left lane: for left turns or U-turns.
- Right lane: for right turns or continuing straight.

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#### **3. Yield to Traffic**
- **Yield to Vehicles in the Roundabout:** Look left and wait for a clear gap before entering. Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way.
- **Check for Pedestrians and Cyclists:** Ensure crosswalks are clear before proceeding.

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#### **4. Enter the Roundabout**
- Enter smoothly when there’s a safe gap in traffic. Avoid stopping unnecessarily once a gap is clear.

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#### **5. Drive Through the Roundabout**
- **Stay in Your Lane:** Do not change lanes while in the roundabout.
- **Maintain a Steady Speed:** Drive at a consistent and safe speed, avoiding sudden braking.
- **Use Mirrors:** Regularly check your mirrors to ensure you're aware of vehicles around you.

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#### **6. Exit the Roundabout**
- **Signal Your Exit:** Use your right turn signal as you approach your desired exit.
- **Yield to Pedestrians:** Check for pedestrians in crosswalks before exiting.
- **Exit Smoothly:** Maintain a steady speed as you leave the roundabout.

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### **Tips for Passing a Road Test at a Roundabout**
1. **Know the Rules:** Understand lane usage, yielding rules, and speed limits.
2. **Stay Calm:** Roundabouts can feel fast-paced, but staying calm helps you focus.
3. **Be Decisive:** Hesitation can confuse other drivers; enter confidently when it’s safe.
4. **Practice Lane Discipline:** Never straddle lanes or switch lanes inside the roundabout.
5. **Signal Properly:** Use your turn signals to indicate your intentions.

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### **Common Mistakes to Avoid**
- Failing to yield to vehicles in the roundabout.
- Entering at an unsafe speed.
- Stopping unnecessarily once inside.
- Not signaling when exiting.
- Cutting across lanes or turning too sharply.

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By mastering these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you'll navigate roundabouts confidently and pass this portion of your road test with ease! Would you like additional tips or practice scenarios?