Roundabout Rules in Northern Ireland
Understand who has priority, how to choose the correct lane and how to signal when approaching, using and leaving a roundabout.
Give way to traffic already on the roundabout.
The central Northern Ireland rule is to give way to traffic on the roundabout unless signs or road markings tell you otherwise.
If the way is clear, you should continue rather than stopping unnecessarily.
Use signs and markings to choose the correct lane.
Roundabout layouts are not identical. Direction signs, arrows and lane markings may allocate particular lanes to particular exits.
- Plan early. Read the approach signs before reaching the give-way line.
- Use the marked lane. Do not assume a familiar lane arrangement applies everywhere.
- Avoid sudden changes. Check mirrors and surrounding traffic before changing position.
Signals help other road users understand where you are going.
Signal appropriately for the exit you intend to take and for the layout you are using. Check mirrors before signalling or changing position.
Traffic lights or lane markings can alter the usual pattern.
Some roundabouts have traffic lights, dedicated lanes or free-flow sections. The signs and markings at the actual junction take priority over assumptions about how a typical roundabout works.
