Among the topics that raise the most questions for those who have just obtained a driver’s license or are preparing for the exam, navigating roundabouts consistently ranks first. Confusion with turn signals, uncertainty when choosing a lane, and misunderstanding of who must yield – all of this leads to hazardous situations even for experienced drivers. In driving courses in Kyiv and other cities, instructors dedicate separate practical lessons specifically to roundabouts, because theoretical knowledge alone is not enough – real driving experience is required.
What is a roundabout intersection
A roundabout intersection is a section of road where several carriageways converge into a circular flow. Traffic moves around a central island counterclockwise (in countries with right-hand traffic). The main goal of this design is to ensure continuous flow without traffic lights and to reduce the number of conflict points at the intersection.
According to the traffic rules of Ukraine (clause 16.12), drivers are warned about approaching a roundabout by two road signs:
- sign 1.19 “Approaching a roundabout” – installed in advance (50–100 m in the city or 150–300 m outside it);
- sign 4.10 “Roundabout” – placed directly before entering the circle.
Additionally, before entering, road marking 1.13 in the form of triangles may be applied, indicating the place where the driver must stop and yield to those already on the roundabout.
Examples of roundabouts in Ukrainian cities
Roundabouts can be found in all major cities of the country. In Kyiv, one of the most well-known is located at Victory Square (intersection of Peremohy Avenue and Sichovykh Striltsiv Street) – a multi-lane roundabout with pedestrian crossings, often used for practical driving lessons. Another is at Darnytska Square.
In Rivne, in 2021, a turbo roundabout was built at the intersection of Makarova and Dubenska streets. The decision was made after about 50 accidents occurred at this location since 2016, resulting in four fatalities. In Lviv, roundabouts are located at Kropyvnytskoho Square and at the exit from the Sykhiv district.
During practical lessons as part of the full Category B driving course, instructors conduct training drives at such intersections so that students can practice entering, lane selection, and exiting in real traffic conditions.
Rules for entering and driving on a roundabout
Traffic on a roundabout is clearly regulated: priority is given to vehicles already circulating on the roundabout. This is stated in clause 16.12 of the Ukrainian traffic rules: “Priority at uncontrolled intersections with roundabout traffic, marked with road sign 4.10, is given to vehicles already moving along the circle.”
Rules for entering a roundabout:
- Reduce speed before entering. Assess the situation – whether there is a gap to merge safely.
- Choose a lane. According to clause 10.4, it is not mandatory to take the far-right lane when entering a roundabout. Drivers may enter from any lane.
- Yield to traffic on the roundabout. If there is a “Yield” sign or marking 1.13, stop and give way to vehicles already on the circle.
- Enter the available gap. When the way is clear, merge smoothly without sharp maneuvers.
Traffic moves counterclockwise on the roundabout. If there are multiple lanes, lane choice depends on which exit you plan to take:
- first exit (nearest) – right lane;
- second or third exit – middle or left lane;
- U-turn (full circle) – left lane.
Roundabout rules prohibit sudden lane changes without signaling. Every lane change within the circle must be accompanied by the appropriate turn signal.
Rules for exiting a roundabout
Exiting a roundabout is clearly defined: you must leave the circle only from the right lane, using the right turn signal. If you are in the left or middle lane, first move to the right lane, ensuring you do not create obstacles for other road users.
Sequence of actions when exiting:
- Turn on the right indicator in advance.
- Move to the right lane, yielding to traffic on your right.
- Take the desired exit.
- Check for pedestrians at the crossing immediately after exiting.
A common mistake is exiting directly from the left lane, crossing the right lane. This is a serious violation that creates a dangerous situation and may result in a side collision. Failure to comply with road signs and markings may result in a fine under Article 122 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses.
Do you need to use a turn signal when entering a roundabout
This question causes debate even among experienced drivers. The answer is provided by clause 9.2 of the Ukrainian traffic rules: a turn signal must be used before starting to move, changing lanes, turning, or making a U-turn.
Sign 4.10 “Roundabout” does not require a turn but rather a movement around the central island in the direction indicated. Since the direction of travel is predefined and only one direction is possible, using a turn signal when entering the roundabout is not required.
Do you need to signal when entering a roundabout – short answer:
- when entering – no, unless you immediately take the first exit;
- when changing lanes on the roundabout – yes, in the direction of the lane change;
- when exiting – yes, use the right turn signal.
Courts have canceled police fines for not using the left turn signal when entering a roundabout, as the traffic rules do not require it.
Common situations at roundabouts and correct actions
- Situation 1. You approach a two-lane roundabout and need to take the third exit. Correct action: enter the left lane, continue to the second exit, move to the right lane with the right signal on, and exit at the third exit.
- Situation 2. On the roundabout, a driver from the left lane suddenly turns to exit, crossing your right lane. Correct action: you have priority since you are staying in your lane. The driver on the left is violating lane-change rules. However, for safety – reduce speed and be ready to brake. Record the violation if possible.
- Situation 3. Before the roundabout, there is a “Main road” sign instead of “Yield”. Correct action: in this case, priority may belong to the entering vehicle, not those already on the roundabout. Pay attention to the combination of signs: if your road is marked as the main one, vehicles on the circle must yield to you. Such cases are rare but do occur.
- Situation 4. You entered the roundabout from the right lane but need to pass more than two exits. Correct action: immediately after entering, move to the left lane with the left signal on. Continue in the left lane, then gradually move right before your exit.
The key rule to avoid accidents at any roundabout: plan your maneuver in advance, change lanes step by step, and always monitor blind spots using mirrors.
