We have already discussed issues related to the rules for driving through roundabouts in previous materials. However, apparently, for many drivers, these "flower beds" still remain an incomprehensible element of road infrastructure.
Question from Andriy:
A road with three lanes leads to a roundabout. In this regard, the following questions arose:
1. Which lane should be taken before the intersection in order to:
• go straight;
• turn right;
• turn left;
2. Is it permissible to change lanes on the "flower bed" from the right lane to the left lane to continue driving straight?
3. Is it allowed to drive on the "flower bed" in the far right lane if a left turn is required?
Answer from Karat driving school experts:
According to clause 10.4 of the traffic rules, before making a right turn, left turn, or U-turn, the driver must take the appropriate extreme position on the roadway intended for movement in his direction. The exception is cases when the turn is made when entering an intersection with organized circular traffic, as well as situations where the direction of movement is determined by road signs, markings, or road configuration that allows movement in only one direction.
Thus, when turning right or left, including moving in the direction of the main road, or when making a U-turn, the driver is obliged to take the appropriate extreme position in advance, unless it concerns entering an intersection with circular traffic.
Based on this, you can enter a roundabout from any lane. When changing lanes, the driver must be guided by clause 10.3 of the traffic rules, which states that when changing lanes, it is necessary to give way to vehicles moving in the same direction in the lane into which the change is planned. In the case of simultaneous lane changes of cars moving in the same direction, the vehicle on the right has the advantage.
Let's summarize:
1. Changing lanes between rows on the "flower bed" is not prohibited;
2. To go straight or turn left, you can enter the intersection from any lane. However, after entering the "flower bed," the two right lanes usually lead traffic to the right, so to continue straight or turn left, you will need to change to the left lanes;
3. To turn right, you should change lanes in advance to one of the two right lanes.
If any signs or markings on Ukrainian roads remain unclear to you, send your questions with the city and address to [email protected].
All answers will be published in the "Traffic Rules Lessons" section.
