Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Once I'm in the roundabout, should I stop to let other vehicles enter the roundabout?
A. No, do not stop except to avoid a collision. You have the right-of-way over entering traffic.

Q. What determines the size of a roundabout?
A. Factors that determine the size of a roundabout generally include the amount of traffic, the size of the largest vehicle, and an appropriate travel speed.

Q. Are roundabouts appropriate everywhere?
A. No. The choice of using a roundabout versus other types of traffic control is a case-by-case decision.

Q. I drive a big truck, and that roundabout looks awfully tight. Will I fit?
A. Yes. The roundabout is designed so that large trucks can traverse them. Most trucks, even large ones, should drive on the travel lanes like most vehicles. Your trailer may track onto the portion of the center island termed the "truck apron".

Q. What if an emergency vehicle comes through the roundabout?
A. If you have not yet entered the roundabout, let the emergency vehicle pass you. If you are in the roundabout, continue on and exit as normal, then pull to the right where there is room for the emergency vehicle to pass. Do not stop inside the roundabout because you may block the emergency vehicle.

Q. What about snow removal at roundabouts?
A. A number of communities in snowy areas have installed roundabouts, including Hamilton, Ontario; Kemptville, Ontario; Howard (Green Bay), Wisconsin; Montpelier, Vermont; and Vail, Colorado. All have indicated that while there are some changes at first for snowplow crews, there are generally no major problems with snow removal in roundabouts. In Howard, Wisconsin for example, one truck will start on the truck apron and plow around the roundabout to the outside, while another truck will plow each entry and exit, pushing the snow to the outside. Roundabouts make it easier to turn snowplows.