Roundabouts Don’t Have to Be Scary

For many learner drivers, roundabouts are one of the trickiest parts of driving — especially during the Isle of Wight driving test.
With so much to think about — mirrors, signals, lanes, timing, and other drivers — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

But once you understand the rules and build good habits, you’ll handle even busy roundabouts like Coppins Bridge in Newport with calm confidence.

Here are the most common mistakes learners make with roundabouts on the Island — and how to avoid them.

1. Not Looking Early Enough

Many learners only start checking to the right at the last second — but by then, it’s often too late to spot a safe gap.

Why it happens:
Nerves and tunnel vision. Learners focus on the car ahead instead of scanning early.

How to avoid it:

• Start looking right, ahead, and left well before reaching the give-way line.
• Slow down gently so you have time to judge traffic.
• Keep your head moving — constant observation is key.

👉 Tip: At Coppins Bridge, early observation helps you spot which lanes are moving — and when your turn will come.

2. Being in the Wrong Lane

Incorrect lane choice is one of the most common causes of confusion and test faults at multi-lane roundabouts.

Why it happens:
Learners panic on approach or don’t read the signs early enough.

How to avoid it:

• Plan early — look for road markings and direction signs before you reach the roundabout.
• Follow this general rule (unless signs say otherwise):
  • Left lane: First or second exit (left/straight ahead)
  • Right lane: Third exit or beyond (right/full circle)
• At Coppins Bridge, each lane is clearly marked — stay in your lane and follow the arrows through.

3. Forgetting to Signal Correctly

Signals show other drivers what you intend to do — but learners often signal too early, too late, or not at all.

How to fix it:

• Left turn (first exit): Signal left on approach and keep it on.
• Straight ahead (second exit): No signal on approach; signal left after passing the previous exit.
• Right turn (third exit or more): Signal right on approach, then left after the exit before yours.

At mini-roundabouts in places like Ryde or Shanklin, you may not always have time to signal clearly — correct positioning becomes even more important.

4. Hesitating Too Long

Hesitation is one of the most common roundabout faults during the driving test.

Why it happens:
Learners worry about making the wrong choice and wait too long — even when it’s clearly safe to go.

How to avoid it:

• Learn to read vehicle speed — not just distance.
• If the car to your right is slowing down or turning off, it’s safe to move.
• Be decisive, but never rush — confidence shows control.

👉 Tip: Examiners prefer a smooth, positive decision to over-cautious hesitation.

5. Not Giving Way Correctly

The golden rule still applies: Give way to the right.

Mistake:
Some learners creep out in front of traffic or assume other drivers will stop.

How to fix it:

• Always check to the right before entering.
• Wait for a clear gap — don’t rely on others flashing their lights.
• Use clutch control to move off smoothly when it’s safe.

6. Cutting Across Lanes

On larger roundabouts like Coppins Bridge, lane discipline is everything. Drifting between lanes or exiting in the wrong one is a major test fault.

How to avoid it:

• Stick to your lane — imagine “invisible walls” either side of your car.
• Keep your steering steady and gentle.
• Use mirrors before changing lanes or exiting.

If you realise you’re in the wrong lane, follow it through safely and re-route — don’t make sudden changes.

7. Forgetting to Cancel Indicators

It’s easy to forget to cancel your signal after leaving a roundabout — especially when you’re focused on gear changes or traffic flow.

How to fix it:

• Build the habit: every time you exit, check mirrors and indicators.
• If your indicator stays on, cancel it quickly so other drivers aren’t misled.

8. Not Reading Mini-Roundabouts Properly

Mini-roundabouts (like those in Ventnor and Sandown) are small but tricky — often in tight spaces with limited visibility.

Common issues:

• Cutting straight across the white circle
• Failing to give way to the right
• Hesitating when both vehicles arrive at once

How to avoid it:

• Treat mini-roundabouts the same as full-sized ones.
• Keep your speed low and steer around the centre.
• If unsure who should go, make eye contact and proceed carefully.

9. Forgetting to Check All Exits Before Leaving

Learners often focus on getting off the roundabout and forget to check mirrors or blind spots.

How to fix it:

• Before you exit, check mirrors and left blind spot for cyclists or pedestrians.
• Keep your signal clear and speed steady as you leave.

This small check shows examiners excellent awareness and control.

Stay Calm and Think Ahead

Roundabouts can seem fast-moving, but the secret is forward planning.
Look well ahead, make early decisions, and stay calm.

When you practise regularly — especially on local routes like Coppins Bridge, Lake, and Arreton — roundabouts become second nature.

How Humphreys Driving School Can Help

At Humphreys Driving School, we make roundabouts simple and stress-free.
Your instructor will guide you through:

• Step-by-step roundabout routines
• Real Isle of Wight examples and test routes
• Lane positioning and timing
• Confident decision-making under pressure

We’ll build your awareness and anticipation so that you can handle any roundabout calmly — from mini to multi-lane.

👉 Book your lesson today and start mastering roundabouts on the Isle of Wight with confidence.