RoundaboutFlanders
Traffic rules
Flanders
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 priority.
Drivers should reduce speed, choose a suitable lane, observe all road users and signal as required when leaving. The direction of travel, entry priority, lane use and rules for cyclists and pedestrians depend on local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Spotter2 • CC BY-SA
How can you recognise a roundabout in Belgium?
A legally signposted roundabout has a central island, a blue circular sign with white arrows, and entrances controlled by give-way or stop signs. Its circular shape alone does not establish its legal status.
Mandatory roundabout direction.
English • Traffic sign D5 • Compulsory roundabout circulation.
Français • Signal routier D5 • Sens giratoire obligatoire.
Nederlands • Verkeersbord D5 • Verplicht rondgaand verkeer.
Who has priority at a roundabout in Belgium?
Drivers already circulating have priority over drivers entering through a give-way or stop sign. Priority from the right does not apply to a driver travelling on a legally signposted roundabout.
Must you stop before entering a Belgian roundabout?
At a give-way sign, stop when necessary to give way. At a stop sign, always stop completely and give way, even when no other traffic is visible.
When must you use your indicators on a Belgian roundabout?
An indicator is not required when entering. Use the right indicator when leaving and switch it off after completing the movement.
Which lane may you use on a Belgian roundabout?
Under the current rules, you need not keep as far right as possible, except on a part reserved for you. Respect lane markings and choose the lane best suited to your destination.
Who has priority when you change lanes on a Belgian roundabout?
You must give way to other road users. Changing lanes is a manoeuvre, and using an indicator does not give you priority. Do not force your way across another lane to reach an exit.
Must drivers give way to cyclists at a Belgian roundabout?
Cyclists on the carriageway have priority over entering traffic at give-way or stop signs. Drivers crossing a cycle path must give way to its lawful users. At separate cycle crossings, check the applicable signs and markings.
Must you give way to pedestrians when leaving a Belgian roundabout?
Yes, to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering. At an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing, also give way to pedestrians already crossing or about to step onto it.
What changes for Belgian roundabouts from 1 June 2027?
Under the new Code, where there are multiple lanes both on approach and on the roundabout, another lane may be used only if you do not take the first exit and do not move into the rightmost lane before passing that exit. Indicators remain required when leaving, not when entering.
🔗 wegcode.be • Code of the Public Road (from 1 June 2027), Provisions applicable from 1 June 2027
How do Belgians refer to a roundabout?
The official Dutch term is rotonde. The French term is rond-point. The legal definition requires the roundabout sign and give-way or stop signs at its entrances; a circular road layout alone is insufficient.
