When driving in unfamiliar areas, it can be quite difficult to know which lane to be in approaching various intersections, especially multi-laned roundabouts. With the help of a couple of illustrations, hopefully we can make this easier for you.
McDowall Roundabout
The first image is of a sign approaching the intersection of Rode Rd, Queens Rd and Old Northern Rd in McDowall. As you look at the image, notice that there are two thick lines which represent the two lanes that enter the roundabout.
The line on the left (indicating an approach in the left lane) shows that it is legal to exit into either Rode Rd (1st exit) or Old Northern Rd (2nd exit).
The line on the right (indicating an approach in the right lane) shows that it is legal to exit into either Old Northern Rd (2nd exit), Queens Rd (3rd exit) or Old Northern Rd (4th exit).
It is important to note that if you intend to take the second exit into Old Northern Rd towards Everton Park/City, entering the roundabout in the left lane will require you to exit into the left lane as you leave the roundabout. Entering in the right lane will require you to exit into the right lane as you leave the roundabout. Changing lanes within the roundabout is both illegal and dangerous!
Rothwell Roundabout
The second image is taken on Anzac Ave heading from Mango Hill towards the roundabout at Rothwell. Notice on this picture that there is three lanes entering the roundabout, so care must be taken to enter the roundabout in the correct lane.
The left most line, shows that this is the only lane into which a turn into McGahey St (1st exit) can be made. It is also the lane to be in if you wish to enter the left lane of Deception Bay Road (2nd exit).
The middle line, shows that this is the lane to be in if you wish to enter into the right lane of Deception Bay Rd (2nd exit) or the left lane of Anzac Ave (3rd exit).
The right most line shows only one path that may be travelled and that is a turn into the right lane of Anzac Ave (3rd exit) heading towards Redcliffe. As with all roundabouts, this right lane is also the only lane to be in if you wish to make a U-Turn at the roundabout.
Changing Lanes on a Roundabout
Once again, changing lanes within the roundabout itself is both illegal and dangerous. If you are unlucky enough to be in the lane that does not take you where you want to go, it is always a better option to exit the roundabout safely, find somewhere to turn around and approach the roundabout again (hopefully in the correct lane this time). Any time lost in doing this is a small price to pay for remaining safe on the roads.
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