How to Safely Use Roundabouts in BC

Yield Sign at Roundabout

The rise of roundabouts in BC has set some people’s heads spinning on how to safely navigate them, whether as a driver, cyclist or pedestrian. So, we created the following guide to help set the record on roundabouts …er… straight.

There are more than 35 roundabouts on provincially maintained roadways across the province, but not all roundabouts are designed the same. Roundabouts can vary in size, number of lanes, and number of entrances and exits. Nevertheless, the same basic rules apply for all roundabouts.

How to Use Roundabouts

Drivers

There are two golden rules for entering an intersection controlled by a roundabout:

  1. Before entering, look left and yield to all traffic in the roundabout.
  2. When entering the intersection controlled by a roundabout, continue moving counter-clockwise and to the right of the rotary traffic island before exiting.

Multi-lane roundabouts at intersections have directional signs and pavement markings to help guide drivers. The signs offer a general depiction of the roundabout, complete with destination symbols (i.e. airport) and road names; they also show which lanes should be used for the various destinations. As you approach the intersection controlled by a roundabout, look at the signs to determine which lane you should be in. Get into the appropriate lane for your destination before entering the roundabout.

Now that you have chosen your lane, identified your destination’s exit, and yielded to pedestrians using the crosswalk, then come the golden rules stated above. This is the crux of any roundabout – get this right, and you’re in pretty good shape.

As you approach your exit, activate your right turn signal so pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers know your intentions.* And again, yield to pedestrians that may be crossing the exit lane’s crosswalk.

*More on signalling at the end of this blog 

With Large Trucks

Roundabouts have what is called an “apron” encircling the centre island. This raised, coloured section allows longer, wider vehicles extra clearance when needed. Please remember to give large trucks lots of room to travel through roundabouts.

With Emergency Vehicles

If you are driving in a roundabout and you hear an emergency vehicle, do not stop! Continue through your intended exit and then pull over.

Cyclists        

Cyclists have a couple choices when it comes to roundabouts.

  1. Use it like a vehicle: In advance of the roundabout, hand signal and merge with traffic when safe to do so, occupying the lane and proceeding into the roundabout as a vehicle would. Important reminder to drivers: cyclists have the right to use the full roundabout lane – be patient, and for goodness sake, no honking!
  2. Use the shared pathway: Before the roundabout, exit the bike lane on the ramp provided and share the pathway with pedestrians and other active transportation. Reduce your speed and be aware of others you’re sharing the pathway with. Dismount and use the marked crosswalks to cross the intersecting streets like a pedestrian. Exit the raised pathway at the ramp that leads down to the bike lane or shoulder of the road.
Shared Pathway Sign
Cyclists, pedestrians and other active transportation users can you the shared pathway.

Pedestrians

Pedestrian crosswalks with pavement markings are located about one car length away from the roundabout. It’s important to only cross at these marked locations; don’t get stranded by cutting across to the central island (there’s really no reason to be there and it’s not safe).

Although vehicles are required to yield to pedestrians, you shouldn’t initiate a crossing unless there’s an adequate gap in traffic or all approaching vehicles have stopped. It’s important to note that a dedicated bicycle path may also connect to these crosswalks – be aware that you’re sharing the crosswalk and pathways with cyclists.

Why Roundabouts?

Intersections controlled by roundabouts are increasingly becoming a go-to design. So, why are they being used more? It comes down to, what we like to refer to, as the bread and butter of transportation: safety and traffic flow.

Roundabouts keep people moving and can reduce backups during heavy traffic volumes. Less traffic standing still means less emissions from idling engines, too. Also, roundabouts reduce the number of conflict points over signalized intersections, thereby decreasing the severity of collisions.

Roundabouts are used when engineering and traffic analysis determines they will provide improved safety and traffic flow for users. Some considerations include traffic volumes, number of intersecting roads, land/cost requirements and collision history.

Sicamous Roundabout
Roundabout at the intersection of Main Street and Highway 97A in Sicamous.

History of Roundabouts in BC

While circular intersections (rotaries) existed in North America since the early 1900s, the modern roundabout was born out of the United Kingdom in the 1960s, before emerging in Canada in the 1990s.

One of the first modern roundabouts built on a provincial road in BC is the double roundabout on Eighth Avenue, just off Highway 99 and west of Highway 15, near the US border. This location, which opened in 2005, features two roundabouts on either side of the interchange.

In 2011, one of BC’s largest networks of roundabouts opened to traffic on Highway 17 at McTavish Road just south of Sidney. Previously a signalized intersection, a combination of three roundabouts improved traffic flow to and from the Victoria International Airport, the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, and the rest of the Saanich Peninsula. The roundabout network also incorporates a six-bay transit exchange and 200-stall park and ride lot.

Some more recent examples of roundabouts include:

  • Highway 1 at McCallum Road in Abbotsford – two multi-lane roundabouts and a four-lane overpass replaced the two-lane bridge over the Trans-Canada Highway, improving access to and from the city. Work was completed in 2011.
  • Highway 97 six-laning project in Kelowna – a roundabout was used on the side road realignment at Rutland/Old Vernon to improve access and keep traffic moving through the area. Work was completed in 2018.
  • Highway 16/37 near Terrace – construction of a roundabout to replace the existing four-way stop is underway with completion expected in late 2020.
  • Highway 93/95 in Radium Hot Springs – the current four-way stop results in heavy backups, especially during the peak summer months. Roundabout construction started June 1, 2020, and is expected to be completed in fall 2020.
McTavish Roundabout
One of three roundabouts at Highway 17 and McTavish Road.

Signalling at Intersection Controlled by Roundabouts

As roundabouts have become more and more popular, proper signalling in roundabouts has become a bone of contention. That’s partly because signalling in roundabouts is not specifically covered in the BC Motor Vehicle Act, the authority on driving.

There are, however, relevant sections: Section 170 and Section 150 (3).

As ICBC states in their Learn to Drive Smart Manual, signalling right before exiting a roundabout is beneficial, as following vehicles know your intent to exit. Signals when turning is included in the BC MVA: “If a signal of intention to turn right or left is required, a driver must give it continuously for sufficient distance before making the turn to warn traffic.”

That means, when entering an intersection controlled by a roundabout:

  • If intending a right turn: Signal right on approach, and continuously signal right until the right turn is complete.
  • If intending to drive straight through (i.e. you’re not turning right or left at the intersection): No signal until exiting – then signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.
  • If intending a left turn: Signal left on approach, and continuously signal left until approaching the exit. Signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.

This view is shared by other countries, such as the UK, and it is our recommendation. That said, it would be a victory in and of itself if drivers at least signalled right before exiting roundabouts. We see many drivers that do not signal at all – whether entering or exiting – roundabouts.

Roundabout Diagram

You can also check out the following helpful blogs:

>> How the Lions Gate Bridge Counterflow Works

>> Top 3 Ways to Be Truck Aware

>> Traffic Signal Power Outage! What Do You Do?

Have we left anything out? If so, let us know in the comments section below.

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Page 1 of 144 comments on “How to Safely Use Roundabouts in BC”

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  1. Note that Roundabouts and Traffic Circles are not the same thing and have different rules. Traffic Circles do not have marked lanes and drivers yield to the right not left. Think of it as a four way intersection.

  2. Under Cyclists Paragraph 2 you state: “Dismount and use the marked crosswalks to cross the intersecting streets like a pedestrian.” yet you show in the video (at about the 1 minute mark) a cyclist cycling across the crosswalk !!

    • Hi David,

      In the blog we actually state: Cyclists        

      Cyclists have a couple choices when it comes to roundabouts.

      Use it like a vehicle: In advance of the roundabout, hand signal and merge with traffic when safe to do so, occupying the lane and proceeding into the roundabout as a vehicle would. Important reminder to drivers: cyclists have the right to use the full roundabout lane – be patient, and for goodness sake, no honking!

      Use the shared pathway: Before the roundabout, exit the bike lane on the ramp provided and share the pathway with pedestrians and other active transportation. Reduce your speed and be aware of others you’re sharing the pathway with. Dismount and use the marked crosswalks to cross the intersecting streets like a pedestrian. Exit the raised pathway at the ramp that leads down to the bike lane or shoulder of the road.

      Hope this is helpful.

  3. what about all the mini roundabouts and traffic circles disseminated through 10th in Vancouver and many other car-bike shared roads?
    These rules leave people unable to drive through them properly? if I enter the roundabout and you tell me to only looking for traffic from the left, you are telling me to not check if someone else entered from the right at a different speed, so we shall collide.
    We should have clear rules like in Europe (yield to the left – one simple rule) to avoid collisions and killing people.

    • Hi Joe, thanks for sharing your feedback here. We have passed this along to road safety staff, if they offer us any further information we’ll be sure to share it back with you here.

    • Hi Julie, thanks for connecting with us here with your question. We have forwarded it along to our road safety team and will be sure to relay any answer that they provide, please stay tuned.

  4. I keep being told leaving a traffic CIRCLE a signal not required as not noted in MVA. Only needed in roundabout. My response any change of direction requires a signal, that includes a circle, since advising other vehicles, particularly wanting to enter before your exit point, your intent. If I am correct maybe amend the instructions for circles because many can’t seem to put two and two together. If incorrect I still will signal when exiting circles, but won’t argue the point with anyone.

    • Hi Byron, thank you for sharing. The MVA doesn’t specifically mention traffic circles, but we agree: it is always a best practice to signal and let other vehicles know where you are heading. Keep up the good work, and stay safe out there!

  5. What if you’re travelling straight through the roundabout in the left (inside lane). As you exit you have to cut across the right lane of the roundabout where a vehicle adjacent has entered and you collide with it. who’s at fault? As the inside lane driver do you have to yield to the outside lane vehicle that just entered the roundabout?

    • Hi Darin – thanks for your question.

      If you are travelling straight through a multi-laned roundabout you should enter into the right lane (not the left or inside lane which is for vehicle travelling beyond 90 degrees from entry). This means you will be occupying the right lane (thus prohibiting incoming traffic from entering) and freeing you to make your desired exit. Hope this helps clarify.

  6. R u calling a 2 lane roundabout the same thing as a traffic circle? Ur description of how to navigate a roundabout ie who should be in left or right lanes and where u are allowed to turn out is in conflict with the way I was taught some 50 yrs ago. Right lane exits at first right exit, left lane goes past first exit but has right of way to exit right at any time on traffic circle as left lane only goes from one entrance to next right exit.

  7. In the guide above “How to Safely Use Roundabouts in BC” you go into history of roundabouts and several other subjects that do not relate to using them which is the subject. In doing so you miss entirely a description of what lane you should be in when entering and who has the right of way in the circle. Many drivers assume they can enter in the right lane and go around as far as they want to exit but drivers in the left lane have the right of way for exiting which leads to accidents. I suggest this How To is edited to provide more detail on the subject and leave the history etc. to another article.

    • Hi Dave – thanks for your comment.

      The blog does instruct drivers on the rules of the roundabout, as shared again below:

      There are two golden rules for entering an intersection controlled by a roundabout:

      Before entering, look left and yield to all traffic in the roundabout.

      When entering the intersection controlled by a roundabout, continue moving counter-clockwise and to the right of the rotary traffic island before exiting.

      Multi-lane roundabouts at intersections have directional signs and pavement markings to help guide drivers. The signs offer a general depiction of the roundabout, complete with destination symbols (i.e. airport) and road names; they also show which lanes should be used for the various destinations.

      As you approach the intersection controlled by a roundabout, look at the signs to determine which lane you should be in. Get into the appropriate lane for your destination before entering the roundabout. Now that you have chosen your lane, identified your destination’s exit, and yielded to pedestrians using the crosswalk, then come the golden rules stated above. This is the crux of any roundabout – get this right, and you’re in pretty good shape.

      As you approach your exit, activate your right turn signal so pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers know your intentions.* And again, yield to pedestrians that may be crossing the exit lane’s crosswalk.

      We hope this helps clarify. Safe travels.

    • Hi Rick – as all vehicles entering the roundabout are expected to slow and yield to traffic in the circle – there should be space in the circle for other vehicles to enter. If you notice that this isn’t happening at a particular location, we ask that you share your concern with the local police authority as they are responsible for enforcement.

  8. I have been in contact with the Delta Police Traffic unit, the Mayor Of Delta, and the MLA for Delta, and had him personally hand deliver a letter to the Minister of Transport regarding the Roundabout off of Highway 17 to River Road in Delta. This anomaly of a design has resulted two crashes of workers in the area so far, both being broadsided due to drivers not knowing how to use the roundabout. This particular roundabout is dangerous; it is not a safer form of exit or intersection in this case. I have driven the roundabout with the Delta Police and the MLA, and both whole heartedly agree with me. I would appreciate a chance to speak to the Minister and take him for a ride around this roundabout. Currently I am waiting on the design and construction crew from the consortium Pacific Gateway Construction Group to join me at the site. I have presented some simple options to increase safety quickly and efficiently, including Rumble strips on the off ramp to roundabout lanes. Daily the companies that work at the now bisected section of River Road in Delta contend with near hits multiple times a week.

    • Hi Kelly,

      Thanks for sharing your concerns with us here. As you have acknowledged that a letter was delivered to our Minister, we will leave future correspondence to that channel. Safe travels.

  9. I also have concerns about the design/signage of the roundabout in Langford headed to the Westshore Parkway.
    It’s a two lane roundabout and the signage is confusing (IMO). My understanding of two lane roundabouts is that if you are immediately turning right, you should be in the right lane. Otherwise stay in the left lane. I nearly got hit by someone going straight who was in the right lane and I had gone round two exits in the circle in the left lane and was about to turn into the West Shore Parkway (which has two lanes also). Am I totally misunderstanding how to use two lane roundabouts?
    Clearer signage would help, as in “Right lane must immediately turn right”.
    It’s an accident waiting to happen. Please help me understand how to more safely use this roundabout.

    • Thank you for noting your comments. I was this idiot today. I have been looking up this intersections signage and it is non existant in the world of google and bc traffic circle signage.

      I am a very cautious driver. I have been safety driving for 25+ years. No accidents. I normally can navigate traffic circles. Today I started to drive left in this circle. I could have had a head on collision and killed my child!

      The sign says left. I have never ever seen this signage in my life and was driving though while on vacation…this intersection was completely new to me and does appear to be set up wrong and is extremely dangerous.

      • Hello Jen,

        Thanks for sharing your concern with us here. We have shared your comment forward with the City of Langford for their review. We will let you know what we hear back.

  10. Last year, I cannot recall which place, probably somewhere in Tricities, the roundabout took GPS and me in circles. I had to exit to where I began and then make circles again and again because there is another short exit that says to airport or something. Hope the GPS is updated with instant exits nearby. Thanks

    • Hello Suman – thanks for connecting with us here. We do not provide information to GPS providers about updates to road networks – they are responsible for that process in house. If you have concerns about your GPS provider info, we encourage you to connect with them directly to share those concerns. Safe travels!

  11. I am glad that the right information regarding how to indicate left before exiting right has been posted. Perhaps you should have asked someone from the UK first rather than someone from Nth America.

    • I don’t understand what you are posting about.

      It’s the right information but to ask a UKer? Sooo is it wrong? Did they ask a NAmerican? Where does it say that? Was it changed? This information is 2 years now.
      So confused, speak clearly, enunciate your typing.

  12. Wow. One of many stupid things in the BC mirror vehicle code. The whole world signals left to stay in the circle and right to leave. So driving straight through requires a left turn signal until you reach the exit. This asked those entering the circle to know which direction you are driving and she they can enter the circle. This is very important to reduce accidents. You can imagine the troubles I have and cause when I’m working and pulling 2 trailers through this circle when people can’t signal.

    • This is wrong. You only signal a left turn if you intend to go around past the straight over exit like this guide says.
      Your way just confuses everyone.
      I have driven in the UK a lot and they do not signal if they are driving straight over.

    • You are Right on! Your way is the way i was taught 50 yrs ago when i got my Alberta license, They’ve had Traffic Circles Long before BC did, I go through 3 everyday and no one Signals Even the RCMP when asked could not come up with the proper signal points…..And[ Round about] sounds like a Disney Ride!!…Motor Vehicle Dept back 50 yrs ago Called them traffic circles! and you had to show proper signal procedure or fail!!

  13. 1. Is it legal to change lanes in a roundabout? 2. Is it legal to exit a roundabout from a lane that was not designated as a left turn lane when entering the roundabout?

    • Hi Geri – thanks for your question. The BC MVA doesn’t mention this specifically but, a roundabout is essentially a traffic control device (like a signalized intersection), which means illegal lane changes are not allowed. We encourage everyone to identify the lane they need to be in before you enter the roundabout. Hope this is helpful.

  14. Is it illegal to drive straight through the island if it is empty? I’m from Alberta and if the intersection is empty we usually just go straight instead if staying on the road? I’m trying to find out if it is a law that you can or can not.

  15. The most frustrating thing about roundabouts is waiting to enter while a long line of vehicles continuously enters from one direction when in fact you were there first and are next in line.

    • Hi Steve – understandably! If you notice that traffic is not slowing down before entering a roundabout (and thereby giving others a chance to enter), we encourage you to share this concern with the local authorities or RCMP for enforcement. Hope that this is helpful. Safe travels.

    • It doesn’t matter who is there first. If they are in the roundy you have to wait. However, they will have to stop if someone is coming on their left, and that will be your chance.

  16. There is a illegal traffic circle in Langford on Vancouver Island on West Shore road. It is a double lane…with both inner and outer lanes able to either turn or go straight at all exits. The inner lane is forever cutting off the outer lane. Ie: if the outer lane driver is going to the second exit from where they entered, and the inner lane driver is exiting the first one they will simply turn right infront of the outter lane driver , cut them off, then honk at them like its their fault. The inner lane never understands that they do not have the right of way and must circle again if it’s not safe to exit at the time. And they don’t understand that there is no way for the outter driver to see their turn signal and hit the brakes. It’s the dumbest traffic circle ever and is a configuration deemed unfit decades ago when the world first started making traffic circles, but the lines on the road indicate both that the outter circle can keep going around or exit and the Inner lane can also continue going around or exit.

  17. Is there any way to get BC drivers to know these rules? I always see no-signal drivers make left or right turns and have to guess. I drive through at least 3 roundabouts each time I go out and can’t believe how many discourtious drivers just fly through turns without signaling and nearly get hit.

    • Totally agree. When they were first introduced ICBC put out these ridiculous ads with Vicki Gabereau that were completely uninformative.
      Roundabouts work great but only if people know what to do, and to be honest, I don’t think ICBC even knows how they are supposed to work.

  18. Edit: In Europe and most of the world, the rule is that if the first exit on your right “isn’t” should be “is”. (It’s a pain not having an edit feature on this site.)

  19. Signalling left makes no sense. It’s a through road that happens to be a circle, it’s not a four way intersection. All exits out are to the right and drivers should signal right before exiting. Both ICBC and the RCMP give no directions to signal left in roundabouts. They only say to signal right before exiting. I think it’s dangerous to have conflicting directions for traffic safety.

    • Agreed. Signaling left only makes sense to me if it is a multilane roundabout and you have to move to an inner lane. Otherwise signaling left makes no sense as you have no choice but to follow the roundabout to your exit, at which point you would signal right.

    • In Europe and most of the world, the rule is that if the first exit on your right isn’t the one you want you signal right. Otherwise you have to signal left, indicating thatyou are going to keep going around the roundabout, until you signal right when your road is coming up. It’s perfectly logical, and far better than the nonsense you see in BC.

    • It totally makes sense to signal left when approaching and going through the roundabout to let opposite approaching drivers know your intentions and know to wait before driving through. The quick right turn leaving-roundabout signal is a courtesy, but not absolutely necessary. As long as your signal light goes off once you are coming to your exit lane you should not have others waiting confused about your intentions. I don’t see why we should signal any differently in a roundabout than in a standard 4 way stop Intersection.

    • You need to signal left if you are going past your straight over exit. That is the way it is done in the UK and its important because it allows several cars to use the roundy at the same time.

    • I completely agree. A left turn signal as you approach a traffic circle looks like you are going to travel clockwise around it. Also, unless I know where you got on the circle, how am I supposed to know where you are getting off based on your turn signals other than when you use the right signal to exit?

  20. Hi, we have had a lengthy discussion about the roundabout in clearwater bc as it’s confusing many people, not being a two laned roundabout all the way around.
    We would love for you to take a look at this round about and give us some direction as to how it should be used correctly!
    Basically the highway has two lanes coming onto the roundabout, either straight or turn, and the other two are single lanes. Thanks!

    • Hi there Anthea,

      Thanks for your question. We’ve just had a look at the configuration of the roundabout on Google maps and can see that the single lanes entering the roundabout are given a dotted line option to move into the left turn lane or to continue through once in the circle. As this option is provided in advance of the other traffic waiting to enter the circle, drivers should enter into their preferred lane as soon as they can (signalling your intent to change lanes or turn left will also help other drivers know your intention). The most important rule of the roundabout is for drivers to yield to traffic inside the circle. This gives other drivers at all points of entry a chance to get in and navigate the circle. Hope that this information is helpful. Let us know if you need more clarification.

  21. My frustration is with not being able to enter a traffic circle. When I approach the circle I know that the street entering the traffic circle from the left will often have traffic. When there are a line of cars my experience is that many drivers seem to feel that they can simply enter the circle behind the car in front with no regard for someone waiting to enter the circle. The result is I can have lengthy waits for the opportunity to safely enter. To me it is only logical, as with four way stops, that whoever arrives at the circle first has the right of way. (Obviously cars already in the circle have the right of way.) Is this correct?

    • Hi there Bob – thanks for your question.

      The ICBC Drive Smart Manual (pg. 58) notes: Yield to any traffic in the traffic circle. If another vehicle arrives at the traffic circle at the same time as you do, yield to the vehicle on your right.

      We hope this helps! If you do continue to note this issue – we recommend you share your concern with the BCRCMP or whichever authority has jurisdiction. Safe travels.

      • Not helpful. The problem is not with situations where drivers arrive at the same time but rather with drivers who arrive at a traffic circle and do not yield to drivers who are already there and waiting to enter.

        • Oh shoot – sorry about that. Thanks for clarifying. Unfortunately, it sounds like this might be a regulation enforcement issue, which lies with the BC RCMP (or other local jurisdiction). Roundabouts are marked with a yield sign and traffic is supposed to slow down and yield to traffic inside the circle, which should provide an opportunity for traffic trying to enter an opportunity to navigate the roundabout. If you continue to observe this issue, we encourage you to share your concerns with the RCMP for follow up. Hope that this helps!

  22. I’m still a New driver in BC but I remember my training well and like to pick on my friends when they pass through roundabouts or even cul de sacs unsafely. I’m a high rise window cleaner in Vancouver for https://commercialwindowclean.ca/ so I often can look down and see the same thing happening from a birds eye perspective. What bugs me is people think because it’s a roundabout that you shouldn’t slow down first of all, and that you don’t need any taillight signals. If anything, signaling which way you’re going to run is even more important in a roundabout because they only have yield signs and if someone thinks you’re gonna turn and you don’ they may drive into you. I’ve seen it happen while at work ands it wasn’t pretty. It’s just awkward to signal in roundabouts because in many cases you have to signal tice, once for which way you intend to go and again for when you turn out of the roundabout. I also do this even if I believe there’s no one who can see me because it’s the safe thing to do!

    • Thanks for sharing this with us, Marly! We tend to agree with you on the signalling – better to over communicate your intention than under communicate! Safe travels.

  23. The use of the right turn signal indicates your intention to leave the traffic circle on the next exit so that those waiting (yielding) to enter, know your intention. There is not any reason to use your left turn signal in a roundabout or traffic circle (unless you are driving in the UK). It doesn’t make sense.

    ICBC has tips on driving in single and multiple lane roundabouts and they do not mention using a left turn signal anywhere. https://www.icbc.com/road-safety/driving-tips/Pages/How-to-use-roundabout.aspx

    • Hi Debbie,

      As roundabouts have become more and more popular, proper signalling in roundabouts has become a bone of contention. That’s partly because signalling in roundabouts is not specifically covered in the BC Motor Vehicle Act, the authority on driving.

      There are, however, relevant sections: Section 170 and Section 150 (3).

      As ICBC states in their Learn to Drive Smart Manual, signalling right before exiting a roundabout is beneficial, as following vehicles know your intent to exit. Signals when turning is included in the BC MVA: “If a signal of intention to turn right or left is required, a driver must give it continuously for sufficient distance before making the turn to warn traffic.”

      That means, when entering an intersection controlled by a roundabout:

      If intending a right turn: Signal right on approach, and continuously signal right until the right turn is complete.
      If intending to drive straight through (i.e. you’re not turning right or left at the intersection): No signal until exiting – then signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.

      If intending a left turn: Signal left on approach, and continuously signal left until approaching the exit. Signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.

      This view is shared by other countries, such as the UK, and it is our recommendation. That said, it would be a victory in and of itself if drivers at least signalled right before exiting roundabouts. We see many drivers that do not signal at all – whether entering or exiting – roundabouts.

      We hope this helps clarify. Safe travels.

      • This is a great article, and very helpful. This one point is flawed though, simply because there is no left turn at a roundabout. It’s a forced right turn in, with a signal if you are taking an immediate right turn out, otherwise its straight in, and signal right when you are approaching your exit. Even if you are intending what would apparently be a left turn on approach, it never is a left turn. It’s a right turn, much like exiting off of a metropolitan highway, where going left is accomplished by following a 270 degree circular exit lane to the right instead. So unless you end up in the wrong lane in the roundabout, and need to signal left to move over to the middle lane, there is no reason to signal left whatsoever.

        • Thanks for your comment, Derek. We certainly understand your perspective. Our traffic engineers view roundabouts as a large traffic control devices (much like a signalized four way intersection). A vehicle entering the roundabout and looking to exit 270 degrees to the left from point of entry is much like a vehicle looking to take a left turn at an intersection and, as such, should signal their intent for clear communication to the other drivers using the roundabout. Yes, they should also choose the correct lane for travelling around the roundabout BEFORE they enter, however, communicating via signals helps clarify their intentions to everyone else. Thanks again for your comment. Safe travels.

          • I think the left turn signal could be useful in smaller traffic circles, where all vehicles coming from all directions can see each other at all times, but in larger roundabouts, it’s very different. Traffic coming from anywhere other than right behind you likely has no idea when you entered the roundabout and which exit your left turn signal is indicating.

            Further to this, if someone incorrectly holds the left signal down while they are in the right lane, thinking that the right lane can be followed all the way around to their ‘left’ turn, they can no longer signal a move to the middle lane because they have been holding the left turn signal incorrectly. This is likely why ICBC does not include any instructions to signal left when entering or to hold the left signal down while driving around a roundabout.

            Holding the left signal down while turning right into a traffic circle also compromises your grip on the wheel and your control of the vehicle during that entry, as the signal resists the action.

          • I think I see where the confusion occurs.
            To a lot of us, a roundabout is a curve in the road and we turn right to exit it and use our turn signals to indicate this.
            If it is to be treated as a 4 way signalized intersection, then it makes sense to use the left turn signal indicate that you are exiting 270 degrees from where you entered. If we continue to apply the same logic then I should not need any signals to enter or exit if I am going straight and I should not use my right hand turn signal to exit at the 270 degree mark as I have already indicated that is my exit with my left turn signal. If we were to follow the same rules as a roundabout at a signalized intersection, I would indicate that I am turning left before entering the intersection and upon entering the intersection, I would then indicate that I am turning right. This is why I fail to see the logic of left turn indicator entering the roundabout.

  24. The wording describing how the traffic circle works is not very clear. If you know how to drive one, than you can figure out the wording, otherwise it is rather vague and confusing.

    Signalling is almost non existent and even Police Officers I have followed do not know how to signal. The explanation for how to signal is not what I was taught when learning to drive in Edmonton, where they have had traffic circles for many years.

    There needs to be a public media presentation on news channels and social media outlets to get the point across. Hoping drivers will pick up how to drive these by osmosis is a dangerous and poor planning on the Highways Ministry

    Robert Parry

    • Hello Robert – thanks for your comments – we will share them forward on your behalf. We like to think of this blog and the promotion of this blog via the ministry’s social media channels as a good start when it comes to educating the public on the 5 W’s of navigating roundabouts. We hope that is how you found the link that led you here! Safe travels.

  25. I hate using a Roundabout at rush hour. Here is example Marshall Rd. and Clearbrook Rd. I want to drive North on Clearbrook, the problem is Drivers going East on Marshall, they are not stopping. It is either wait for someone to slow down, to get a chance or force your way into the circle. It is the same when driving on the Hwy 539 to Bellingham. They are worse intersections

    • Hello Tiemen – thanks for connecting with us here to share your concerns. Unfortunately, it sounds like this might be a regulation enforcement issue, which lies with the BC RCMP (or other local jurisdiction). Roundabouts are marked with a yield sign and traffic is supposed to slow down and yield to traffic inside the circle, which should provide an opportunity for traffic trying to enter an opportunity to navigate the roundabout. If you continue to observe this issue, we encourage you to share your concerns with the RCMP for follow up. Hope that this helps!

  26. I have a question regarding the Sooke Rd roundabout at Evergreen Shopping Centre in Sooke. Due to the high amount of traffic on Sooke Rd, traffic entering the roundabout from Sooke Rd can “flood” the roundabout with almost never-ending traffic. This results in traffic not being able to enter from the shopping centre with very few safe gaps. As people become frustrated with not being able to enter, they become willing to take shorter gaps and sometimes force their way in. Should vehicles from Sooke Rd when it is busy be stopping every so often to let some traffic enter the roundabout from the shopping centre? I would appreciate clarification on this. Thank you.

    • Hi Colton,

      Thanks for your question. Sounds like the issue described here is that drivers on Sooke Road are not following the posted “Yield to Traffic inside the Roundabout” signage. If this continues to cause concern, we encourage you to reach out to the BCRCMP, as they are responsible for enforcing the rules. Hope that this is helpful!

  27. Simple and clear uniform and specific language for all Traffic Circles/ Roundabouts is needed:. Such as all traffic must yield to traffic that is in the traffic circle whether or not Traffic Circle/Roundabout is or is not controlled. When entering a multilane Traffic Circle/Roundabout from the right lane Driver may only proceed as far as second exit and must exit at the second exit. When entering a multilane Traffic Circle/Roundabout from the right lane Driver may exit at any exit except the first exit upon entering, otherwise a Driver if she/he choses may spend all day going round and round in the Traffic Circle/Roundabout. Finally when entering the Driver MUST indicate via signals on Vehicle of her/his intention.

  28. 2 questions; Will you be putting up signalized roundabouts like the UK, I hope not since they defeat the purpose of the roundabout. Secondly, is the govt planning on replacing intersections in Surrey with roundabouts? Thanx!

    • Hello Pranad – thanks for connecting with us here. You are correct – the use of signalized roundabouts defeats the purpose of a roundabout and it is not likely that we would go that “route”. Are there any particular intersections in Surrey you are thinking of? That would help us identify if the road is under our jurisdiction or if it belongs to the City of Surrey itself. Thanks!

      • As the UK is mentioned as a guide, and I’m from the UK, here’s how it works: signalling is based on the number of exits.

        If leaving at the first exit, signal right when entering the roundabout.

        If leaving at the second exit (usually straight ahead), there is no need to signal when entering the roundabout.

        If leaving after more than 2 exits, signal left when entering the roundabout, signal right on exit.

        All roundabouts I’ve encountered in BC are small, single lane replacements of stop signs and could almost be considered “mini roundabouts” by UK standards, where big, high speed, multi-lane roundabouts (sometimes 4 lanes wide) are common. In those cases it’s usually always best to signal when exiting and changing lane

  29. What happens if where you intend the traffic is blocked by a train surface crossing for minutes?
    If traffic starts to flow again, how should the vehicles, that have been waited at the roundabout, proceed to enter the roundabout to ensure smooth flow for everyone?

    • Hi there – thanks for your question. To clarify – you are asking who has priority in a roundabout following a train crossing delay which backs traffic up, into the roundabout? Once traffic from inside the circle has cleared (this traffic has priority over traffic waiting outside the circle), then vehicles waiting to enter the circle can do so when space to their immediate left becomes open. Make sense?

  30. Hi there –
    I haven’t scrolled right down into the basement, but has anyone mentioned your history is a bit off? I would venture they emerged in Canada earlier – Edmonton had several “traffic circles” in the ’60s.

    • Hi Bernice. Yield to all traffic inside the roundabout. No need to yield to traffic not yet in the roundabout. If two vehicles approach a two-lane roundabout entrance at the same time, they will each have their own lanes.

  31. I think driver in citys like Victoria should be more trained on how to drive properly when emerging into a roundabout. Somehow citys needed to be broadcasted how to drive safely. Ive asked five random people walking out of ICBC drive test center in Victoria on what to do when they drive striaght through the round about. Two out of five people told me that they would signel right before exiting off the round about while driving striaght through. One of the wrong person answered me saying she would stop and wait while in the round about to let the next vehicle in front emerge safely infront of her, that could of cuased traffic to stall behind her or even rear end her. People may think they being courtesy but really can cause an accident becuase of not being properly trained or warned. When I lived in Waterloo Ontario on the news there was a story about unsafe drivers using round abouts. After that day I swear traffic was a lot smoother and less accidents acurred. I ask Victoria B.C to broadcast a proper precaution on how to drive through rounabout please.

    • Thanks for your comment, Noy. We agree roundabout education is important, which is why we make instructional content available here on our blog and social media platforms, as well as the ministry website.

  32. Struggling with this. I go through one every day – it’s on a main artery into the subdivision where my son’s school is. I go through on the main artery, drop him off, go around the block, and then come to the same roundabout from the side, intending to turn left and go back the way I came from. Problem is, one often waits for 2-3 minutes to get into the roundabout, as the majority of drivers in the main artery treat the raoundabout as a chicane, and go through it bumper-to-bumper, leaving you no space to get into the traffic flow. Yes, one is supposed to give way to traffic already in the roundabout, but if people arrive at exactly the same time, who gives way to who? Link to Google maps: https://goo.gl/maps/FFYupkCxrLnYnJ3r5

    • Hi Angus – thanks for connecting with us here. Your question is a valid one. Technically, those drivers who are going through bumper to bumper should be pausing, at least temporarily at the entrance to the circle, which should create a window or opening for drivers waiting to enter at other points. If this is a consistent issue, we encourage you to voice your concerns to City of Victoria police for follow up enforcement. We hope that this is helpful. Let us know if you have any other concerns or questions.

      • So if I arrive at the roundabout at the same time as a car to my left I have the right of way? Correct? If the car to my left is in a string of 10 cars no one yields to cars on their right. They just keep driving into the roundabout without slowing. I think I will just enter when it is my turn. Btw I phoned the RCMP and they did not know who had the right of way.

        • Hi Bill. I think I understand what you’re asking. If you approach a roundabout entrance and another vehicle is approaching the roundabout entrance to your left, your entering will not interfere because you are ahead of them. That string of 10 vehicles you mention will have to yield to all traffic approaching from their left.

    • Hi Matt – thanks for your comment.
      As roundabouts have become more and more popular, proper signalling in roundabouts has become a bone of contention. That’s partly because signalling in roundabouts is not specifically covered in the BC Motor Vehicle Act, the authority on driving.
      There are, however, relevant sections: Section 170 and Section 150 (3).
      As ICBC states in their Learn to Drive Smart Manual, signalling right before exiting a roundabout is beneficial, as following vehicles know your intent to exit. Signals when turning is included in the BC MVA: “If a signal of intention to turn right or left is required, a driver must give it continuously for sufficient distance before making the turn to warn traffic.”
      That means, when entering an intersection controlled by a roundabout:
      • If intending a right turn: Signal right on approach, and continuously signal right until the right turn is complete.
      • If intending to drive straight through (i.e. you’re not turning right or left at the intersection): No signal until exiting – then signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.
      • If intending a left turn: Signal left on approach, and continuously signal left until approaching the exit. Signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.
      This view is shared by other countries, such as the UK, and it is our recommendation. That said, it would be a victory in and of itself if drivers at least signalled right before exiting roundabouts. We see many drivers that do not signal at all – whether entering or exiting – roundabouts.

      We encourage you to connect directly with ICBC about the wording on their website. 🙂

  33. I am frustrated by drivers who signal left. There are no left turns. You can only exit right. The only way one should signal left in my opinion is if there are multiple lanes and one wishes to enter the inside or left lane. Am I correct? Or am i wrong?
    Thank you

    • Good morning Shawn and welcome to the great debate – lol. Roundabouts are considered a traffic control device ( sort of like a signalized intersection). When a driver approaches a signalized intersection with the intention of turning left, they are required to indicate by use of their signal that they intend to turn left. This helps other motorists driving in the opposite direction know their intention. The same rule of the road technically applies for a roundabout; however, given the general lack of signalling found in a roundabout, we consider any signal a win. A driver intending to turn left should position their vehicle in the left most lane within the roundabout, in advance of entering the roundabout so they do not have to change lanes once they are in the circle. When the driver moves three quarters of the way around the circle, they are technically taking a left turn from their point of entry. A right signal to exit allows drivers inside and outside the circle know that the vehicle is leaving the circle. Make sense?

      • What happens in the very common scenario where car 2 waiting to enter a roundabout does not see where the left-signalling car 1 entered the roundabout? Car 2 will be very confused because the left signal is therefore meaningless. I believe simplicity should rule above all else when it comes to traffic control devices, and no signalling should happen in roundabouts until the right signal to exit. The left signal gives no additional useful information, and can at times be confusing to other road users.

        • Thanks for your comment, Sean. I understand your point; however, the left signal is not meaningless. Car 1’s left signal will inform Car 2 that it does not intend on exiting at the next exit.

  34. So this is a constant source of debate between my wife and myself. Her attitude, which I’ve since adopted, is to keep the left-turn signal blinking UNTIL you plan to exit, and then turn the right-turn signal on. That way there is ZERO doubt in the mind of those waiting to enter the round-about about your intentions. The left-turn signal indicates that I am staying in the round-about, so please don’t enter. That said, I see your line that says: “If intending a left turn: Signal left on approach, and continuously signal left until approaching the exit. Signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.”

    So, where in the world (meaning, the world that drives on the right-hand side) would you ever do a left-turn OUT of a round-about? Is there such a thing in B.C.?

    • Hi Cameron – thanks for your comment and question. Given the nature of the roundabout and the movement of traffic in it, there is no instance where you would signal left to actually exit the roundabout.

      Roundabouts are considered a traffic control device (sort of like a signalized intersection). When a driver approaches a signalized intersection with the intention of turning left, they are required to indicate by use of their signal that they intend to turn left. This helps other motorists driving in the opposite direction know their intention. The same rule of the road technically applies for a roundabout; however, given the general lack of signalling found in a roundabout, we consider any signal a win. A driver intending to turn left should position their vehicle in the left most lane within the roundabout, in advance of entering the roundabout so they do not have to change lanes once they are in the circle. When the driver moves three quarters of the way around the circle, they are technically taking a left turn from their point of entry. A right signal to exit allows drivers inside and outside the circle know that the vehicle is leaving the circle. Make sense?

  35. I remember having to navigate a double lane traffic circle in Dawson Creek in the early 80s for my driver exam. You would not believe the number of tourists driving up the Alaska hwy in their big RVs that were not trained to use a traffic circle. Some just took both lanes, but others tried backing up (instead of just taking a second round) when they missed their turn. Glad they made it part of driver training there. I fully agree with the use of the left signal as well. If people use it at a normal intersection why would they not in traffic circle? It helps those entering to understand driver’s intent.

  36. Do not tailgate the car in front of you to block transports from entering on your right. It’s very common to see 5 or 10 cars bumper to bumper which forces others to back up

  37. Growing up in Victoria in the ‘50s I remember the intersection at Douglas and Hillside was a roundabout feeding all the streets that meet there. I would like to see it brought back.

    Another way to think of entering a roundabout as continuing on your current road so no signal is necessary. Leaving the roundabout is leaving your road so signaling is warranted.

    • Thanks for connecting with us here and for sharing your comment, David. We will share your feedback with our traffic engineers, although this particular location would primarily fall under the jurisdiction of the City of Victoria.

  38. I thought coming to this page would help. Ha Ha Ha! I give up! I ain’t gonna signal at all and take my chances. Gimme the ticket. Gosh Darned Idiots (government) Toilet seats still $6000 or did they go up again . . .

    • Thanks for coming anyways, C. Smythe. We understand that some folks are still trying to figure out the rules of the roundabout. We hope that this blog gave you some insight into how to roll with them. If you have any specific questions about roundabouts – or anything else we do – just let us know here and we will try to get you the answer. Safe travels.

    • Thanks for your message Steve. We are looking into producing a video. In the meantime, if there is something in particular which is confusing you – let us know and perhaps we can help clear it up!

  39. I question turning on your signal as soon as you enter roundabout unless you are taking the first right exit. If taking second right exit and signalling before passing first one you are telling drivers entering that you are turning before you actually are and they then enter cutting you off! Yes please do signal as soon as possible on approaching your right exit .

    • Thanks for the comment, Rocky. We are only recommending drivers activate their right signals when entering a roundabout if they intend to use the right exit. If turning at the left exit, activate left signal until approaching left exit, then activate right signal upon exiting.

      Here’s how the blog breaks it down:

      That means, when entering an intersection controlled by a roundabout:
      • If intending a right turn: Signal right on approach, and continuously signal right until the right turn is complete.
      • If intending to drive straight through (i.e. you’re not turning right or left at the intersection): No signal until exiting – then signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.
      • If intending a left turn: Signal left on approach, and continuously signal left until approaching the exit. Signal right to exit, as per ICBC’s recommendation.

      Does this help clarify?

  40. Signaling left when you enter a roundabout to exit at the 3rd exit is a stupid idea the same for no signal if you go straight. Who other then the car behind you knows when you entered. Signaling right when leaving makes the most sense. What if there are only 3 roads or more then 5 roads connected by a roundabout.

    • Hi Mark. The BC MVA states a driver whose maneuver impacts another must signal. A roundabout controls an intersection. In most cases, the intersection would otherwise be a four-way stop controlled by traffic lights or stop signs, requiring the driver to signal accordingly. However, the number of exits does not matter – if your intention is to turn left, for example, at the intersection controlled by a roundabout, you should signal left when entering and right to exit.

  41. Wise advice from the maritimers…
    DONT TRY THE ROUNDABOUT BESIDE A LARGE CMV!!!
    It’s just common sense.
    Apron be damned, if your coming up on my right I cannot see you in a roundabout. I have no idea you are there.
    So from the easterners…
    Do not enter roundabout or navigate a roundabout beside a big truck. It’s actually a ticketable fine

    • Hi Vik,

      I think what the City of Vancouver webpage is saying is, if two vehicles arrive at two different entrances to the roundabout at the same time, the person on the right, goes first. (Somewhat like if two vehicles stop at a four-way stop intersection, coming from different directions, at the same time, the person on the right goes first. If you’d like to clarify or confirm that, I suggeest you contact the City of Vancouver: https://vancouver.ca/your-government/contact-the-city-of-vancouver.aspx

    • You are correct, it is a confusing description in the Vancouver site.
      Important to note, it talks about “when 2 vehicles enter at the same time…”…
      Once IN the roundabout, the vehicle that was on the right when the 2 vehicles entered, would be ahead of the 2nd vehicle. I take it that there cannot be overtaking within the roundabout..
      Upon EXITING, the vehicle on the left (inside lane) has the right of way, as was always the case in North America…
      GH

  42. Excellent article! Hopefully, with time more people will signal in roundabouts.

    Also, why doesn’t the ministry use flashing yield signs at roundabout approaches on highways or at highway interchanges? They would provide more emphasis on the need to yield to traffic in the roundabout. For example, the roundabouts at the Pat Bay Highway and McTavish Rd. As many people simply don’t look left when entering. The Minnesota Department of Transportation found that, on average, flasher equipt stop signs lowered collision rates by 41% across the study intersections. In theory, flashing yield signs have similar safety benefits. (Example of flashing yield signs: https://www.tapconet.com/product/24-7-blinkersign-flashing-led-yield-sign-r1-2)

    • Thank you for reading, Colton. Appreciate the feedback. And yes, we also hope that in time, and with continued education, people will signal more. As for flashing yield signs, the Highway 17 / McTavish Avenue roundabouts have two such signs: one on the N/B highway exit, and one from Canora Road. Are these the types of signs you are referring to?

      I’ve also asked our engineering department for other examples.

          • We haven’t used flashers above yield signs in BC. We do have a process in place for consideration of flashers at stop controlled intersections, but not yield controlled. However, our traffic operations engineers do have the ability to explore other measures where standard approaches have been tried and found to be lacking (hence the vehicle activated yield signs at McTavish).

            At McTavish, for example, we found that some vehicles at two of the approaches (from Highway 17 northbound and coming from the airport) were tending not to yield. Part of the issue we determined was that due to the curvature of the approaches, the yield signs at the roundabout were not as visible as we would like. So, we explored using the vehicle activated electronic signs that are there now. These signs could be placed in advance, making them more visible. We also wanted something that would not flash all the time, but rather would activate when a vehicle approaches, making them more eye-catching.

            When it comes down to it, our traffic engineers do have the ability to consider additional approaches, such as flashers. But we don’t go straight to using all the bells and whistles for every situation. Rather, we have standard approaches that we use and, if we see an issue, we consider additional measures. This ensures a more consistent and cost-effective approach.

          • Also, there have been several instances where vehicles enter the roundabout too fast and end up losing control and crashing. There is only a single “50 km/h” exit advisory speed at the beginning of the ramp but there is no “30 km/h” advisory speed prior to the relatively sharp curve on the roundabout approach. Has the ministry looked at adding additional advisory speed signs on the roundabout approach from the Hwy 17 NB off-ramp to address these collisions? Thank you!

          • Hi Colton,

            Ministry staff will review the collision data on the McTavish roundabouts. If we feel additional warning signs are required, we will install further signs. Thank you for your suggestion.

  43. The problem with the new roundabout in Terrace is that I see a lot of vehicles not yielding as they enter, not even slowing down. They just barrel right through! I’ve been traveling through the roundabout a few times, with my young children in the vehicle and have had to jam on the breaks to avoid being sideswiped by larger vehicles not stopping. What can be done about this, it is so dangerous.

    • Hi there Amanda – thanks for your comment. We understand that some drivers are inexperienced with roundabout ettiquite, which is why we created this content to help educate. Unfortunately, we are not in a position to enforce the rules of the road – that falls to the BC RCMP. Perhaps try reaching out to the local detachment and expressing your concerns?