Mastering Irish Roundabouts

Learn the golden rule of Irish roundabouts and navigate them safely and confidently.

The Golden Rule

Always give way to traffic approaching from your right.

This is the fundamental rule of Irish roundabouts. Before entering, check that the road is clear from your right side. If there's any traffic coming from the right, you must wait until it passes.

Turning Left (1st Exit)

Lane Position

Stay in the left lane throughout.

Signalling

Signal left on approach and keep it on until you exit.

Speed

Reduce speed appropriately and maintain it through the roundabout.

Going Straight (2nd Exit)

Lane Position

Stay in the left lane unless road markings indicate otherwise.

Signalling

No signal on entry. Signal left after passing the exit before yours.

Observation

Keep checking your mirror and look for your exit clearly.

Turning Right (3rd Exit or Beyond)

Lane Position

Move to the right lane on approach.

Signalling

Signal right on approach. Signal left to exit after passing the previous exit.

Caution

Be extra cautious of traffic from your right and vehicles exiting.

Mini Roundabouts

Treat mini roundabouts exactly the same as large roundabouts. The white painted circle must be driven around, not over (unless your vehicle is too large).

Always give way to traffic from your right, even though the roundabout is small.

The Clock Method

Think of the roundabout as a clock face:

  • 12 o'clock:

    Straight ahead (2nd exit)

  • 3 o'clock:

    Right turn (3rd exit)

  • Before 12:

    Left turn (1st exit)

Common Mistakes

  • ✗Not checking right before entering
  • ✗Wrong lane positioning
  • ✗Forgetting to signal
  • ✗Cutting corners
  • ✗Driving over mini roundabout