General Driving - Roundabouts - Spiral Roundabout - Right 3rd exit

Videos covering South Yardley, Kings Heath, Shirley and Garretts Green tests centres.

My pupils have used these videos to help with their driving lessons and to prepare for their driving test.

[Sam-oouo]

At 1:20, could you use the middle lane to turn right? I know the signs on the road say the 3rd lane is for turning right but the little grey car at 1:28 seems to be heading right 3rd exit but uses the middle lane. They end up in the left lane when they exit the roundabout, whereas you have to change lanes when leaving. It seems the safer option if allowed.

[taruqhussain]

Road markings on approach to the roundabout show that the middle lane is marked with a straight arrow (I understand that at some roundabouts the right lane can also be marked with a straight arrow as opposed to a right one - if you don't understand why then leave a post) and the middle lane is also marked with "Central Area". Therefore strictly speaking, the middle lane should not be used for the right turn. In this situation it is a case of the driver in the grey car is in a rush, cannot be bothered to stay behind the learner, and turns right from the incorrect lane.

You are also right in that the grey car does not cross lane lines for his exit and this may be considered the safer option, but road markings state otherwise.

To finally add, all drivers should be able to do safe lane changes on a big roundabout by making good early use of their mirrors and being aware of what is happening around them.