Multi-Lane Roundabouts
Multi-Lane Roundabouts
The skill of driving Multi-lane roundabouts with ease is to ensure that the driver is always in the correct lane that takes them to the destination/exit they require.
The skill of knowing what lane is probably the skill that takes the longest to master.
How many times have you asked a pupil "At the roundabout turn right and take the 3rd exit" and they merrily sit in the left hand lane on the approach?
Just getting a pupil to understand Defaults for lane discipline on approach can take some time to grow into, but then local council's find that changing the default for certain roundabouts is better for a good flow of traffic than having default markings.
This then means that because not all roundabouts are default, you need to teach your pupil about Non-default markings.
So another skill that they need to master in relation to anticipation and planning ahead.
A crucial skill if your learner's are going to become fluent confident driver's is being able to read the road, look out for road signs and markings and act on what they see.
Unfortunately, poor road markings, signs hidden behind foliage or not present at all, just hinder the learning process. Therefore if you see road markings or signs that need sorting, always mention it to you local highways agency, this in turn will make your job a lot easier in the long run.
Now they understand what lane they need to be in, understand there may be non standard markings to look out for, now they need to know about approach speeds, gear selection, mastering MSPSGL routine, Looking for gaps, Lane Discipline etc etc etc. the list goes on and on with the skills that they need to master to become fluent drivers on roundabouts.
GIVE THEM TIME AND PLENTY OF PRACTICE ON ALL DIFFERENT TYPES!
Build up their skills gradually and get lots of conversations going so you understand their understanding or the rules of roundabouts.
The general rules and guidance on using roundabouts can be found here.
Multi-lane roundabouts carry the same rules.
All roads carry a certain amount of danger, and that is why we should be ensuring our pupil's get as much experience as they possibly can on all types of road, in all types of weather condition and different times of day.
Bigger roundabout, especially ones not controlled by traffic lights will possibly carry higher speeds. This means if things go wrong, it can get messy!
Driver's not being in the correct lane and cutting you up.
Driver's not carrying out correct check on the approach and pulling out in front of you.
Driver's not looking where they are going and driving into the back of you on the approach to the roundabout.
Driver's stopping when there is no need to be stopping.
Understanding what lights are dealing with what section of the roundabout. Always be sure to check to your left and right when passing entry points, and when entering the roundabout EVEN IF YOUR LIGHTS ARE GREEN, as someone may be jumping the lights.
