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RoundaboutUnited States

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of United States. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
United States

20. Roundabout

A roundabout is a circular road arrangement in which traffic travels around a central island in one designated direction. Vehicles enter and leave through connecting roads, and traffic signs or local rules determine who has the right-of-way.

Drivers should reduce speed, choose a suitable lane, observe all road users and signal as required when leaving. The direction of travel, entry right-of-way, lane use and rules for bicyclists and pedestrians depend on local traffic signs and regulations.

Roundabout sign at the junction of US Route 50 Alternate, US Route 95 Alternate and Nevada State Route 828. (Fernley, Nevada, United States)
Wikimedia.org • Famartin • CC BY-SA
Who has priority at a roundabout in the United States?

In California, entering drivers must yield to all traffic already in a roundabout. Traffic circulates anticlockwise. Other states and older traffic-circle layouts can have their own controls.

🔗 dmv.ca.gov • California DMV — signs, junction priority, crosswalks and steep narrow roads

🔗 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov • FHWA MUTCD11th Edition including Revision1 — relevant signs/markings; device standard, not state law

How should you choose a roundabout lane in the United States?

In California, choose the lane for your exit before entering and follow the signs and lane markings. The Driver Handbook illustrates different positions for a right turn, straight-ahead movement and left turn; allow large vehicles the space they need.

🔗 dmv.ca.gov • California DMV — signs, junction priority, crosswalks and steep narrow roads

🔗 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov • FHWA MUTCD11th Edition including Revision1 — relevant signs/markings; device standard, not state law

Warning for a roundabout. Warning for a roundabout.

English • W2-6 + W16-12aP • Roundabout ahead. Warns of a roundabout ahead. Slow down and follow the signs controlling the approach.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov • FHWA: MUTCD, 11th Edition with Revision1, PDF page220

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Federal Highway Administration - MUTCD • Public domain • Source revision 2013-05-10. Wikimedia original unmodified.

What should you check when leaving a roundabout in the United States?

Check the lane you will cross or enter, signal the manoeuvre as required and look for cyclists and pedestrians at the exit. Obey any separate crossing controls and do not force an exit across another vehicle’s path.

🔗 dmv.ca.gov • California DMV — signs, junction priority, crosswalks and steep narrow roads

🔗 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov • FHWA MUTCD11th Edition including Revision1 — relevant signs/markings; device standard, not state law

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