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1. What are the differences between roundabouts and traffic circles?

A traffic circle can use stop signs and other controls. There are also no limits to the circle size or the entrance angles and widths of the approaches. 

A modern roundabout only uses yield control on approaches. Roundabouts also have design limits on circle size and the approach entry designs.

2. What do these advance lane control signs mean?

Before reaching a roundabout, drivers will see lane control signs to direct them into the correct lane. For example, if a driver wants to make a right turn (or travel straight through), he or she can move to the right lane before entering the roundabout. To make a left turn, a u-turn, or also go straight, drivers can move to the left lane and follow the lane striping to the correct exit. Keep in mind that each roundabout will have different layouts, so drivers need to look for the lane control signs in advance of a roundabout.
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3. Are roundabouts safe for pedestrians?

The City designed its roundabouts so that people can safely walk across the streets. The crosswalks are designed to allow pedestrians to cross at a minimum distance of 20 feet from the roundabout circle. The crosswalk is also divided by a median, and lets pedestrians see vehicles coming from one direction at a time. Pedestrians will see traffic exiting on one side of the median and traffic entering the roundabout on the other side.
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4. Do I need to stop at the yield signs?

When approaching a roundabout, drivers need to look for vehicles already in the circulating roadway. If there are no vehicles in the roundabout circle or entering the roundabout from a lane on the left, then a driver can enter the roundabout at a reduced speed without stopping. However, if there are vehicles in the circle or entering at the same time, then the driver should stop and wait for an adequate gap in order to enter the roundabout safely.
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5. Can I change lanes in a roundabout?

Although a multi-lane roundabout has two or more lanes, drivers should not change lanes while travelling in the roundabout. The traffic signs are designed to guide drivers to the correct lane before entering the roundabout and while circling the roundabout. If a driver does not choose the correct lane, then he or she should exit the roundabout, make a u-turn at the next median break and choose the correct lane based on the traffic signs. Changing lanes within a roundabout not only causes confusion for other drivers, but can also cause accidents.

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6. How do trucks and buses use a roundabout?

Many roundabouts are designed to allow buses and large trucks to drive through the roundabout. They typically have a 5-15 foot wide mountable curb around the central island called a truck apron. Buses and semi-trucks can use this apron in order to make a turn within the roundabout, and for multi-lane roundabouts, they can use both circulating lanes in order to make a turn. However, drivers of large vehicles need to wait until the circulating roundabout is clear of vehicles before they can enter and use both lanes. In addition, drivers on multi-lane approaches to roundabouts need to give way to oversized vehicles and allow them to enter the roundabout first.

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7. What about stopping in a roundabout?

Drivers should never park or stop within the roundabout or along the entrances and exits. Because the roundabout is designed to allow continuous traffic flow, extended stopping and parking within the roundabout area can lead to accidents. If a driver experiences vehicle problems, it is best to exit the roundabout before stopping. Also when another driver stops within a roundabout, do not change lanes to go around them since this can increase the risk of an accident. Wait for them to move.
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8. How do I react to an emergency vehicle approaching a roundabout?

This depends on where a driver is located when an emergency vehicle approaches from behind. If he or she is approaching the roundabout, the driver should pull over before reaching the median dividing the entrance and exit lanes. If the driver is at the entrance or within the roundabout circle, he or she needs to enter the roundabout and take the first exit. Once he or she is out of the roundabout, then pull over for the emergency vehicle.
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