Chico is blooming roundabouts
Friday, June 26, 2009
It seems everyday I drive to work one more roundabout shows up on the route. Yesterday, an older gentleman attempted a left turn in a roundabout by driving the shortest distance. He went left. Makes sense, right? But no, in a roundabout, you would go right to go left. Well, right, then curve left, then go right onto your destination street.
It will take some gettting used to. I have seen a few extra car parts on the road to prove that not everyone is getting the hang of it yet.
Tips for motorists navigating roundabouts
Taken from the Department of Motor Vehicles’ California Driver Handbook
When you approach a roundabout:
- Slow down as you approach the intersection.
- Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists crossing the roadway.
- Watch for signs and pavement markings that guide you or prohibit certain movements.
- Enter the roundabout when there is a big enough gap in traffic.
- Drive in a counterclockwise direction. Do not stop or pass other vehicles.
- Use your turn signals when you change lanes or exit the roundabout.
- If you miss your exit, continue around until you return to your exit.
