Editor:
Re: Traffic roundabout rules are simple (Optimist, letters, April 27)
Unfortunately, although well intended, this letter has several possibly misleading statements.
Firstly, there is no need to signal when entering a roundabout. There is only one way to enter - to right when clear.
Secondly, the only signaling required is to tell other traffic when you intend to exit - just prior to your exit branch. That enables the car entering from the next branch to enter as you exit; thus maintaining flow efficiency (the whole intention of roundabouts in the first place).
Thirdly, suggesting that a ‘zip’ entry should be used violates the basic rule that cars already in the roundabout have the right of way. Rules would have to be changed to support this.
Maybe a sign, in addition to the existing yield sign, could be added to advise people to signal their way out of the roundabout. Not many drivers do that now.
Brian VanVliet
