A. Yield to the traffic in the circle. Go slowly. Don't drive side-by-side with other vehicles. Pick your lane before you enter.
Q. Does the rule "yield to the right" apply to roundabouts like it does at a four-way stop?
A. No. Roundabout traffic circulates counter-clockwise, so as you enter, traffic will be coming at you from your left. Yield to the left, like you do when getting on a highway or turning right on red. If the circle is clear, you don't need to stop when entering. Drivers already in the circle have the right-of-way over those trying to enter.
Q. How fast should drivers go through a roundabout?
A. Traffic safety experts say 15-20 mph in dry conditions and even slower when it's icy. Drivers on Dowling Road were going too fast, so the state is adding "speed tables" to slow them down. Drive smoothly so that others can judge your speed and know when to enter.
Q. Is it OK to "let someone in?"
A. Only if you do it exactly right. You can slow down so that the safe gap becomes more obvious to the incoming driver. But don't stop.
Q. How do pedestrians use a roundabout?
A. Pedestrians always have right-of-way in the crosswalks adjacent to roundabouts, but need to make sure drivers see them before they cross. Drivers shouldn't stop in the crosswalks.
Q. What about bicyclists?
A. Bicycle riders can legally be in the street with traffic but it's not advisable at roundabouts. Traffic safety experts say bicyclists should use paths and crosswalks.
Q. Can trucks use roundabouts?
A. Yes, though they may need both lanes to make wide turns, especially on Dowling Road, where the circles are smaller. Large trucks also can use the truck aprons in the center of the roundabout. Other drivers should give truckers plenty of room and not be side-by-side.
Source: Alaska Department of Transportation
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