The Carson City Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the community about the laws and the proper use of a roundabout. Carson City has one multi-lane roundabout at S. Carson St. and S. Stewart St., and numerous single-lane roundabouts throughout the city.
Key Rules and Guidelines for Roundabout Use:
- Yield to Entering Traffic: Entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists already within the roundabout.
- Travel Direction: All traffic moves counterclockwise.
- Approach and Lane Choice: Reduce speed as you approach and choose your lane:
- Left Lane: Use to turn left, complete a U-turn, or go straight.
- Right Lane: Use to turn right or go straight.
- Entering Safely: Wait for a gap in traffic and only enter when it is safe. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure the path is clear.
- Maintain Lane: Once in the roundabout, you must maintain the lane you chose.
- Exiting: Use your right turn signal when exiting the roundabout.
Common Causes of Roundabout Crashes:
- Failing to Yield the Right of Way
- Speeding
- Failing to maintain lane or unsafe lane changes
- Rear-ending vehicles waiting to enter
The Carson City Sheriff’s Office will continue to enforce traffic safety laws and educate the public year-round as part of their commitment to reduce accidents and save lives. Whether you’re the driver, a passenger, or a pedestrian, the Carson City Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone to make safety on our roadways their top priority.
Please contact Sgt. Olson at solson@carson.org or 775-283-7887 if you have any questions.
