Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Permit Practice Test

When entering a roundabout or circular intersection, you must proceed in which direction?

1. Clockwise

2. Straight

3. Counter-clockwise

4. Any direction as needed

The correct answer is: Counter-clockwise

When entering a roundabout or circular intersection, the requirement to proceed counter-clockwise is based on standard traffic flow practices that enhance safety and efficiency. In many countries, including the United States, roundabouts are designed to allow vehicles to flow in a counter-clockwise direction around a central island. This design helps prevent head-on collisions and simplifies navigation through intersections. The counter-clockwise movement aligns with the priority rule where vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way over those entering. This means that when you approach a roundabout, you'll look to your left to see if the path is clear, making it critical to travel in the counter-clockwise direction. Understanding this rule ensures that drivers can anticipate the movements of others around the roundabout, thus reducing confusion and potential accidents. The other options, such as going clockwise or any direction as needed, would violate these safety guidelines and could disrupt the flow of traffic, leading to hazardous situations.