Roundabouts

Roundabouts are becoming more common because they are efficient and offer more safety benefits due to the slower speeds and reduced points of impact. Instead of an intersection controlled by traffic lights or stop signs, roundabouts use a circular layout that encourages a continuous flow of traffic. 

When the 65 Avenue and QEII Interchange Project is finished, a roundabout will be located on both sides of the highway.  

  • The east teardrop roundabout will help manage traffic flow from the new and existing overpass and control congestion in the area.  
  • The west roundabout will connect drivers to the Airport Perimeter Road, 50 Street, and 35 Avenue. Vehicles in the roundabout have the option to head towards the airport, back onto the QEII from 65 Ave, or to west neighbourhoods of the city. 

Roundabouts - MAP.jpg

Roundabout Basics 

Understanding how to drive in a roundabout is essential to reduce congestion and minimize the likelihood accidents. Please watch this short video and review the steps outlined below. 

Shared with permission from the City of Red Deer 

 

Approaching the roundabout 

  1. Reduce your speed as you approach the roundabout and be prepared to yield. 
  2. Look for signs and road markings indicating the lane you need to be in for your desired exit. 
  3. Watch for pedestrians and yield to them at crosswalks before entering the roundabout. 
  4. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Vehicles within the roundabout have the right of way. 

Picking your lane 

  1. Pick the correct lane based on your intended exit. Use the right lane to turn right or go straight and the left lane to go straight, left, or make a full circle (U-turn). 
  2. Use your turn signal to indicate your intended direction. 
  3. Wait for a safe gap in the traffic before entering. Do not stop once you are in the roundabout unless necessary. 
  4. Stay in this lane until you exit the roundabout. Signal right prior to your exit. 
  5. Motorists should not need to make lane changes once they’ve entered the roundabout. The roundabouts in Leduc will have dedicated right turn lanes, meaning you do not have to enter the roundabout. Signal right and follow the right-turn lane and merge with traffic exiting the roundabout. 

Entering and Exiting the Roundabout  

  1. Always yield before entering a roundabout. Check for pedestrians who may be crossing. 
  2. Look left and yield to traffic in the roundabout. Only enter when there is a break in traffic. 
  3. Once in, maintain a consistent speed with the flow of traffic and stay in your lane till your exit. This is why it is important to pick the correct lane when entering.  
  4. Be aware of large vehicles as they may need extra space to maneuver. Give them room and do not pass them within the roundabout.
  5. Use your turn signal to indicate your exit. This helps other drivers understand your intentions. 
  6. Watch for pedestrians at the crosswalks as you exit the roundabout and yield to them if necessary. 
  7. As you leave the roundabout, maintain a safe speed to merge smoothly with the traffic flow.