It is important to understand the difference between a traffic circle and a roundabout, and the rules that apply to each. Many parts of the B.C. do not have traffic circles or roundabouts, but they are becoming more common in the Lower Mainland.
The ICBC FAQ Web page
provides a simple answer as follows:
"The roundabout and its smaller cousin the
traffic circle are both designed to help you move safely through an
intersection. With both you just have to slow down and go around the middle
instead of stopping and waiting. Traffic circles are mostly found in
residential neighbourhoods and the rules for their use are a bit simpler.
To go through a traffic circle:
- Slow
down as you approach the intersection.
- Yield
to any traffic in the traffic circle. If another vehicle arrives at the
same time as you do, yield to the vehicle on your right.
- Go
around the traffic circle to the right (in a counterclockwise direction).
The basic rules for using a roundabout are:
- When
approaching, reduce your speed, watch for signs that may help you find
your exit, watch for people using the crosswalk and be ready to stop.
- Before
entering, yield to traffic already in the roundabout that comes from your
immediate left.
- Enter
the roundabout to your right (a counter clockwise direction) when there is
a gap in traffic and you feel it is safe to do so. Continue until you
reach your exit.
- Never
come to a full stop in the roundabout unless traffic conditions require
it.
- To
exit, use your right turn signal to let other road users know where you
plan to exit. Watch for people using the crosswalk, exit at a slow speed
and be ready to stop.
- Remember,
if you miss your exit, you can always keep going around the roundabout
until you reach it again!"
If you find yourself
injured in a car accident whether in a roundabout, traffic circle, or anywhere
else on a BC roadway, call Becker, Lavin & Wessler at 604.689.3883 for
help.
