Motorists should be aware that misunderstanding the rules at mini roundabouts can have legal consequences, warns a driving expert. The Highway Code clearly outlines how drivers must approach and drive around these junctions.
Mini roundabouts are governed by the same principles as standard full-sized roundabouts. While it might seem convenient to drive straight over the painted central circle, this action may actually breach traffic regulations. Steve Walker, head of digital content at Auto Express, emphasises the correct approach for these smaller junctions.
“According to the Highway Code, mini roundabouts should be treated exactly like conventional roundabouts,” Walker said. “This means drivers must circulate around the central markings and not drive directly over them.”
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Rule 188 of the Highway Code states: “Mini roundabouts. Approach these in the same way as normal roundabouts. All vehicles MUST pass round the central markings except large vehicles which are physically incapable of doing so.”
The central markings are painted flat on the road surface to accommodate larger vehicles, such as buses and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), which may need to drive over the circle because they cannot navigate around it. Walker explains, “Large vehicles are an exception because they physically cannot go around the central area, which is why the mini roundabout uses road markings rather than raised curbs.”
For standard cars, however, ignoring the central markings can carry serious legal risks. Deliberately driving over the painted circle may result in police intervention.
Walker adds, “For most vehicles, going over the central markings improperly or in a dangerous manner could amount to a driving offence, with penalties depending on the situation.”
The Highway Code further advises caution at mini roundabouts, noting there is less space and time to signal. It specifically warns against making U-turns at these junctions and to watch for others attempting to do so.
Additional guidance is provided for more complex scenarios. Rule 189 instructs drivers at double mini roundabouts to treat each roundabout separately and give way to traffic approaching from the right.
Meanwhile, Rule 190 explains that at some junctions with a series of mini roundabouts, drivers must treat each one separately and always apply the usual roundabout rules.
Being familiar with and adhering to these rules ensures safer navigation around mini roundabouts and helps drivers avoid potential driving offences.