Crittals Corner and Spiral Roundabouts
Spiral roundabouts are large gyratory systems often found at motorway intersections or under flyovers.
When I use spiral roundabouts I try to discover the exit before the one I need, so that I can plan to be in the left hand lane at the correct moment. For example, if you are at Crittals corner and you know you need to follow the A20 to central London, then you should aim to be in the left hand immediately after the Orpington exit. Use the mouse to change the graphics on the illustration below
Often the lanes are road marked. Therefore, if you know that you need the A20, for example, then simply drive in the lane which has A20 marked on it. If you stay in that lane, then you should end up where you desire. Unfortunately lane markings are not always as accurate as they should be. Road signs will also mark the way.
Using your mirror-signal-manoeuvre routines carefully you should be able to shift to the next lane on your left when you need to. Be careful to watch out for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders.
Signalling on spiral roundabouts
Using signals in the ordinary prescribed manner may not be helpful on spiral roundabouts. For example, maintaining a right indicator signal for the duration of a right turn manoeuvre may create confusion, rather than remove confusion. If you're in the correct lane, then other drivers should be able to predict your behaviour. If you need to change lane then use signals accordingly.
Be careful, plan ahead, and if you're not sure where you need to exit you can use the right hand lane, and go around the roundabout a couple of times to discover which one you require.
Be defensive, and watch out for drivers who are more confused than you are!
Sidcup checklist
You may be asked to bay park at the test centre. You should also have had plenty of experience of the following:
- Spiral Roundabouts (Crittals Corner)
- National Speed Limit Single and Dual Carriageways
- Emerging Right from One Way Streets
- Turning Right across Dual Carriageways (North Cray Road; see picture)
- Busy roundabouts on steep uphill slopes
