How to Understand Traffic Lights at Roundabouts?
2 Answers
Roundabout traffic lights still follow the basic rule of stopping at red and going at green. The variation is that when the intersection light is red, vehicles are allowed to make a right turn and exit the intersection while ensuring pedestrian safety. When the roundabout light is red, the innermost lane permits vehicles to continue driving around the inner circle of the roundabout, but attention should be paid to whether there are any related warning signs set up at the roundabout. A roundabout, also known as a rotary or traffic circle, is a special form of traffic node, belonging to a type of at-grade road intersection, suitable for intersections with relatively low traffic volume, serving the purpose of slowing down vehicles for turns. Roundabouts are typically designed with four lanes: the left lane is for left turns, the middle two lanes are for going straight, and the right lane is for right turns to exit the roundabout.
As someone who has driven for many years, I always approach roundabouts with traffic lights with extra caution. Unlike regular intersections, roundabouts have continuous vehicle flow, so I slow down in advance and keep a close eye on the traffic light changes every time I approach. At a red light, I must come to a complete stop—no running it, even if the roundabout appears empty. When the light turns green, I yield to any vehicles or pedestrians already in the roundabout before entering. Once, I witnessed someone running a red light and nearly causing a collision. Especially during heavy rain or at night, traffic lights serve as our guiding lights, reminding me to stay patient and maintain a safe distance. Remember, even simple rules require flexible application—roundabouts are dynamic, so scanning your surroundings multiple times can prevent trouble. Experience has taught me: watching the lights is just the starting point; what's more crucial is developing the awareness to anticipate risks.
