When to use the turn signal at a roundabout

Understanding Roundabouts: A Guide for Drivers

Roundabouts, often referred to as traffic circles, are a relatively recent addition to Italian roads and yet they are extremely common.
The placement of a roundabout offers several advantages over traditional intersections, including environmental benefits, but it certainly doesn’t make life easier for drivers, who are often uncertain about the correct behavior to adopt.

When to Signal in a Roundabout

During driving lessons, students learn to use turn signals to indicate their intentions to other drivers and anticipate their actions.
However, many seem to forget this fundamental rule.
The use of turn signals in a roundabout is crucial to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety, especially in multi-lane roundabouts.

It’s important to remember not to activate the turn signal when entering a roundabout, as the roundabout is a continuation of the road and does not involve changing lanes.
Once inside the roundabout, drivers should be ready to signal their movements, especially which exit they will take.
This determines the correct use of position indicators:

• If you intend to take the first exit, signal right immediately.
• When passing the last exit before yours, still signal right to indicate your intention to exit.
• After entering the roundabout, it’s advisable (though not mandatory) to signal left to inform others that you won’t be taking the first exit.

Signal use in a roundabout must be moderate, especially in busy multi-lane roundabouts.
In these cases, following lane discipline eliminates the need for additional signaling, with the turn signal used only to indicate your exit well in advance.
Typically, you will signal right.

However, in heavy traffic, drivers are allowed to use any lane to enter the roundabout, making their behavior less clear and predictable.
In such situations, stick to your chosen lane, avoid dangerous lane changes, and only prepare to switch just before your exit, signaling right in a timely manner.
Timing is crucial when using turn signals in this scenario.

Understanding Right of Way in Roundabouts

After addressing the signaling issue, drivers in Italy face another complex question daily: who has the right of way in a roundabout? In a European-style roundabout, the most common in Italy, vehicles entering must yield to those already inside.
Conversely, in an Italian-style roundabout, vehicles inside the roundabout have the right of way.

To differentiate between the two types of roundabouts, rely on the vertical and horizontal signs at the entrance.
A European-style roundabout features a blue and white sign indicating its presence, along with a yield sign advising caution for entering vehicles.
Conversely, an Italian-style roundabout only has a blue sign, indicating that entering traffic has the right of way.