Rules for Roundabouts in Arkansas

Roundabouts are increasingly common across Arkansas as a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional intersections. They reduce the severity of collisions and improve traffic flow, but only when drivers understand and follow the correct rules. Whether you're new to Arkansas roads or just need a refresher, here’s what you need to know about using roundabouts legally and safely.

Understanding How Roundabouts Work

A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows counterclockwise around a central island. Vehicles entering the roundabout must yield to traffic already circulating. Unlike traffic signals, roundabouts are designed to keep vehicles moving, which reduces delays and the risk of high-speed collisions.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has adopted roundabout guidelines consistent with national standards from the Federal Highway Administration. These rules emphasize yielding, signaling, and lane discipline.

Right-of-Way Rules at Roundabouts

The fundamental rule in any roundabout is to yield to traffic from the left—that is, vehicles already inside the circle.

According to Arkansas law:

• Yield upon entry: Drivers must slow down and yield to all circulating traffic within the roundabout.
• Yield to pedestrians: Pedestrian crosswalks are located at the entrances and exits of most roundabouts. Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians at these crosswalks.
• Emergency vehicles: If an emergency vehicle is approaching, do not stop within the roundabout. Exit immediately, then pull over to allow passage.

These guidelines are an extension of the state's Right-of-Way Rules, which emphasize yielding as a key principle for safe and legal driving.

Lane Usage and Signaling

Some roundabouts are single-lane, while others may have two or more lanes. The rules for lane usage in multilane roundabouts are as follows:

• Choose the correct lane before entering: Use the right lane if you're exiting the roundabout at the first exit; use the left lane if you intend to go straight or take an exit further around.
• Do not change lanes inside the roundabout: Lane changes within a roundabout are illegal and dangerous.
• Use turn signals: Indicate right when exiting to alert other drivers and pedestrians of your intent.

These lane and signaling practices align with general Arkansas Traffic Laws, which stress lane discipline and the use of signals for all turns and lane changes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite their benefits, roundabouts can be confusing for drivers unfamiliar with their rules. Common violations include:

• Entering the roundabout without yielding
• Stopping in the middle of the roundabout
• Making lane changes while inside the circle
• Failing to signal when exiting

Such behaviors can lead to citations or even contribute to traffic collisions. Understanding the Penalties for Driving Violations in Arkansas helps reinforce the importance of adhering to traffic rules, including those governing roundabouts.

Defensive Driving in Roundabouts

Being alert and courteous is especially important in roundabouts. Watch for drivers who may not yield properly or pedestrians stepping into crosswalks unexpectedly. Defensive driving techniques are vital in these areas, especially when sharing the road with trucks or oversized vehicles that may straddle lanes.

Learning these techniques as part of a Traffic School or Driver Improvement Course is a great way to stay sharp and avoid violations.

When in Doubt, Slow Down

Speeding is one of the main contributors to roundabout crashes. Arkansas law mandates reduced speeds in roundabouts, typically 15–25 mph. Always approach with caution and adjust your speed to match conditions and traffic flow.

For more on how Arkansas enforces speed limits and intersection control, check out the state’s Minimum Insurance Requirements, which tie into overall traffic safety responsibilities.