Right-of-way rule must be similar at all traffic circles
A fortnight ago, we touched on traffic circles and who has the right of way approaching one of these traffic-calming measures.
Well, the debate rages on, and after spending the past week monitoring circles, it was astounding to see how many motorists are uncertain or hesitate.
This week's column is dedicated to traffic circles or roundabouts, as some know them, and will hopefully clear up any confusion.
They are very confusing actually, as everyone has their own theory on what to do and who has the right of way. According to traffic officials, we have two kinds of traffic circles in South Africa: mini-circles and roundabouts.
The obvious rules apply to all circles: slow down, be aware and take notice of what is going on around you, especially regarding road signs and road markings.
Try to get into the correct lane and make sure you signal your intentions ahead of time. Always travel in a clockwise direction.
The first kind of circle we have is a mini-circle, and these you would typically find on small suburban roads where traffic volumes are low, and traditionally replace a four-way stop.
Legislation describes the rules at circles as follows: "They indicate to the driver of a vehicle approaching a mini-circle that he or she shall yield right of way to any vehicle which will cross any yield line at such junction before him or her, and which, in the normal course of events, will cross the path of such driver's vehicle and that the driver shall move in a clockwise direction within such junction, and attempt not to encroach on the mini-circle."
Here is where the significant difference comes in. In a mini-circle, you slow down and give way to other vehicles that cross any yield line before you do, as opposed to giving right of way to vehicles coming from the right.
Roundabouts are a different story altogether. When approaching a roundabout, always yield to the cars coming from the right before entering.
Once entering the circle, take the outside lane if your left turn is the next one - stay on the inside lane if your left turn is not the next one - and only then do you proceed to the outside lane before your turning.
My view is that the legislation should be changed, and all traffic circles should allow traffic from the right to have right of way.
The reality is that more traffic circles are going to be coming up all over the place.
They reduce speed, calm down traffic and, statistically, accidents - as well as their severity - come down drastically.
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