In a roundabout, who has the right of way?

In a roundabout, the vehicle already in the roundabout has the right of way. This rule is designed to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and minimize potential conflicts as vehicles navigate through the circular intersection. When drivers approaching a roundabout understand that they must yield to those already inside it, it helps to maintain order and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

Allowing vehicles inside the roundabout to proceed uninterrupted helps facilitate the continuous movement of traffic, which is one of the primary purposes of roundabouts. This design encourages more efficient travel compared to traditional stop-sign or signal-controlled intersections because they reduce the number of points where vehicles may stop or slow down significantly.

When applying this rule, drivers entering the roundabout should be vigilant and wait for a safe opportunity to merge into the flow of traffic without disrupting the vehicles already in the roundabout. This situation contrasts with other scenarios where different vehicles might have the right of way, which could lead to confusion and potential hazards if not understood properly.