Hi Folks…

This weeks’ topic of discussion is traffic circles and mini traffic circles. Since their implementation traffic calming circles have been a source of confusion, irritation and frustration for motorists.

We thought we should use this opportunity to look at the facts around (excuse the pun) their use and the function they perform in certain areas.

The following comments are from our Training Director, Derek Kirkby, who has shared – in simple terms - the actions drivers should take when negotiating circles.

Till next time - Drive right and give other motorists a break when negotiating circles.

Eugene Herbert

Group Managing Director

The RAC Group

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Circles

The yield at a mini circle imposes a mandatory requirement that drivers of vehicles approaching a mini circle shall yield to the right of way to any vehicle which will cross any YIELD LINE marking RTM2 at such junction before them, and which, in the normal course of events, will cross the path of such driver’s vehicles, and that the driver shall move in a clockwise direction in such junction and attempt not to encroach on the mini circle.

In plain English essentially what this means is that the first vehicle to cross the line has the right of way.  This works in much the same way as a four way stop.

Who has the right of way?

In the above example Vehicle 2 has the right of way even though Vehicle 1 is to the right. This is because Vehicle 2 has crossed the line first.

Indicating your intentions

Most mini circles are too small, often just a “dot” on the road, to allow for turn signalling as in a roundabout. The rule is therefore different to a roundabout.

When approaching a mini circle one should indicate their desired direction of travel before entering the circle.