I have mentioned in the past that I get questions from time to time about traffic related issues. Today I received one about the roundabouts in Carson City. The concern was that many drivers may not understand how they work.
Some of the examples given were that some drivers come to complete stops instead of entering the roundabout when they have the right of way. Going the wrong way was also a concern as well as driving across the raised center portion of the circle instead of travelling on the paved roadway.
Roundabouts do not use stop signs, but often use yield signs to notify drivers to yield to approaching vehicles already in the roundabout.
In many ways, entering a roundabout is much like making a right turn from an intersection. Drivers approaching a roundabout must yield to approaching vehicles within the roundabout, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists.
When safe to enter, drivers turn into the roundabout to the right (counterclockwise), driving to the right of the center island while proceeding through the roundabout. Before exiting, drivers should use a turn signal to indicate where they will exit the roundabout.
Large commercial trucks and trailers are permitted to use the truck apron provided around the center island to negotiate the tight turning radius.
They drive (usually with just the rear wheels) on the raised pavement of the truck apron to navigate more easily. Cars and light trucks should not use the truck apron.
The roundabouts in Carson City are small by comparison to some around the country. Be courteous and cautious when using them.
— Writer Scott McDaniel is a sergeant with the Carson City Sheriff's Office and writes a weekly public safety column.