Roundabouts are often considered safe and efficient for smoothing traffic flow, but specific rules regarding priority seem to be misunderstood by drivers in Wallonia.
An alert was issued Thursday by the regional road safety agency (AWSR). The agency surveyed 1,000 motorists in the southern region of Belgium, asking about traffic rules related to roundabouts.
"With an average score of 6/10, the results are mixed," noted the AWSR.
A quarter of respondents incorrectly believe that using indicators is mandatory when entering a roundabout. Indicators are required only when exiting, a rule known by 95% of those surveyed.
Can drivers choose their lane within a roundabout? Only one in ten gave the correct answer: yes. "Upon entering or within a roundabout, drivers can choose their lane. However, to exit, they must be in the outer lane," emphasised the AWSR.
Further findings reveal that 18% of Walloons mistakenly think it’s possible to exit from the inner lane, contradicting the need to first switch to the outer lane, where drivers lose priority—a fact misunderstood by 19% of drivers.
One in five drivers believe they can enter a roundabout while another vehicle is already in the outer lane. "The rule is clear: those already in the roundabout have priority," reminded the AWSR.
Annually, around 140 accidents involving casualties occur at roundabouts in Wallonia. Cyclists and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable, often caught in other vehicles’ blind spots, and they make up over 37% of the victims in these incidents.
The AWSR highlights that cyclists and scooter users should use the cycle paths in roundabouts. Where such paths are unavailable, they are advised to ride in the centre of their lane for better visibility.
Drivers are encouraged to check over their shoulder before changing lanes or exiting a roundabout to ensure no one is in their blind spot.
