Traffic circles can leave some drivers who are unfamiliar with them intimidated, but the reality is that they’re quite easy to navigate. Here are some tips for navigating the circles you might encounter when driving around the Mt. Kisco, NY area.
Approach the Circle Slowly
Navigating a traffic circle successfully is easiest when you have ample time to react to any changing situations ahead of you. That’s why it’s crucial that you travel at a slow and safe speed throughout your approach. Lay off the gas pedal and leave a safe separation between your vehicle and any drivers ahead of you.
Know Where You’re Going
Figuring out where you’re going in the traffic circle is something that should be done ahead of time, not when you’re moving with traffic through the roundabout. Signs mark where you should get off the traffic circle, or you can use a navigation system to get even more clear directions on where to go.
Stay in Your Lane
One common cause of mishaps in a traffic circle occurs from drivers changing lanes while they’re moving through the circle. Once you’ve figured out which lane will lead you to the exit that you intend to take, stay in that lane throughout your time in the circle. A traffic circle is not the ideal place to try to overtake other drivers.
Respect the Right of Way
Remember that vehicles already in the traffic circle when you arrive have the right of way. When entering the circle, be prepared to yield to any drivers who are already present. This will help to minimize your risk of a collision with another driver.
Use Your Turn Signals
Signaling to other drivers what you intend to do is an important part of staying safe on the road, and the same holds true when you’re navigating a traffic circle. Put your indicator on corresponding to the exit you intend to take as soon as you enter the circle.
Choose the Correct Lane
Just when you get a single-lane traffic circle mastered, you might come across one with multiple lanes that seem more complicated. However, these circles are easy to navigate once you know the rules that come with them. Take the right-most lane if you’re getting off at the first exit, or go to the inside if you’re getting off at the far exit.
Practice Makes Perfect
As with any skill in your driving repertoire, handling traffic circles is something that you will feel more confident in the more you do it. Take time to practice the skills you’ll need in a traffic circle. To do this safely, if you don’t feel comfortable in a real traffic scenario, set up cones or other obstacles in a similar pattern to a traffic circle and get some practice on your own.
Do you need more tips on having the best driving experience in Mt. Kisco? Our Lexus dealership has you covered!
Connect with us
