Minnesota Permit Practice Test

What is the correct action to take when approaching a roundabout?

1. Speed up to merge quickly

2. Yield to traffic in the roundabout

3. Ignore signs and markings

4. Stop before entering

The correct answer is: Yield to traffic in the roundabout

When approaching a roundabout, yielding to traffic already within the roundabout is the correct action. This rule is designed to improve the flow of traffic and enhance safety. By yielding, you allow vehicles that are circulating in the roundabout to pass by without interruption, which helps prevent collisions and ensures a smoother transition into the roundabout for drivers entering from the road you are on. The design of roundabouts is such that traffic flows continuously, and vehicles already inside have the right of way. This means that as you approach, you should slow down and assess the situation, waiting for a safe gap in the traffic before merging into the roundabout. This practice promotes efficiency and reduces wait times compared to traditional intersections where stoplights may cause delays. Other actions like speeding up to merge quickly could lead to unsafe situations, as it disregards the existing traffic flow. Ignoring signs and markings can result in confusion and accidents, while stopping before entering a roundabout can negate the intended purpose of the roundabout, which is to keep traffic moving.