Love them or hate them, roundabouts are here to stay. They keep traffic moving, eliminate dangerous left-hand turns, and drastically reduce high-speed broadside crashes.

But for pedestrians, cyclists, and the drivers trying to avoid them, roundabout crosswalks can feel like a game of high-stakes chicken.

Whether you’re behind the wheel, on foot, or on two wheels, here’s how to navigate our neighborhood roundabouts safely—without creating traffic jams or dangerous sudden stops.

For Drivers: The Golden Rules of Yielding

1. Yield BEFORE You Enter: Look for pedestrians in the entry crosswalk before you scan left for oncoming roundabout traffic.

2. Never Stop INSIDE the Circle: If you are already inside the circulatory ring, keep moving. Stopping mid-roundabout to “be nice” and let a pedestrian cross confuses other drivers, increases the risk of rear-end collisions, and blinds drivers behind you to the pedestrian’s presence.

3. Yield as You Exit: Crosswalks are set back slightly from the circle. As you exit, drive at a low speed (15–20 mph) and prepare to yield to anyone crossing the exit lane.

For Pedestrians & Cyclists: Take the Refuge

 Push the Button: If the crosswalk is equipped with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), push the button. The bright flashing lights force drivers to take notice.

 Cross in Two Stages: Roundabout crosswalks feature a raised median island (splitter island) in the middle. Treat the crossing as two distinct steps: cross one direction of traffic, pause on the island, and then make sure the next lane of traffic sees you before stepping out.

 Make Eye Contact: Never step into the lane assuming a driver will stop, even if the beacons are flashing. Wait until you see the vehicle actively slowing down.

When In Doubt, Wait It Out. And wait for the gap in BOTH lanes.

 Cyclists—Walk or Ride with Caution: If you choose to use the crosswalk, dismount and walk your bike to hold full legal pedestrian right-of-way. If you ride through the roundabout, take the full center of the vehicle lane and act like a car.

The Bottom Line

Predictability saves lives. When drivers maintain steady movement inside the circle and pedestrians cross methodically using refuge islands and flashing beacons, everyone gets where they’re going safely.

Keep your eyes up, ditch the distractions, and let’s keep our neighborhood streets safe for everyone.