Re: ‘Don’t forget proper roundabout etiquette’ (Letters, PQB News, Jan. 6)
I disagree with statements made:
1. “When you enter a roundabout you do not have to signal a right-hand turn.” and; 2. “… not have the left-hand lane paved with brick … It achieves nothing and costs a fortune.”
When I approach the entry to a roundabout I turn on my signal – right side for the next exit and left side to emphasize my right-of-way. It must be remembered that vehicle turn signals serve only one purpose: to advise other traffic (vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians) what the driver is about to do with their vehicle.
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The correct way to use a roundabout is as follows:
As you approach the entry you must slow down and look to your left for approaching traffic. If no traffic, continue into the circle without stopping. If traffic is approaching and about to exit to your left (as indicated by the right-turn signal light), then also continue into the circle without stopping. If, however, there is traffic approaching and exercising its right-of-way (by activating their left-turn signal light), then you must stop before entering. The efficiency of roundabouts is improved when drivers make such use of their turn signals; it is totally efficient when all drivers adhere to this practice.
With respect to the sloping paved brick section of the circle, consider the following. The radius of the circle dictates the tightness of the curve, and the tighter the curve the more difficult it is for long vehicles to navigate. Thus, they need a wider lane and that is provided by the sloping brick inner-ring. But, if that was replaced with widening of the paved surface the result would be impatient and illogical drivers using this surface as a second lane, with a consequential increase in accidents within the roundabout.
I hope this helps readers understand how to effectively and courteously use roundabouts.
Ralph Moore
Qualicum Beach