Guide signs

Guide signs are important in providing drivers with proper navigational information. This is especially true at roundabouts where out-of-direction travel may disorient unfamiliar drivers. A number of guide signs are appropriate for roundabouts and are described below.

Advance destination guide signs

Advance destination guide signs should be used in all rural locations and in urban/suburban areas where appropriate. The sign should be either a destination sign using text (D1-3) or using diagrams. Examples of both are shown in Exhibit 7-13. Diagrammatic signs are preferred because they reinforce the form and shape of the approaching intersection and make it clear to the driver how they are expected to navigate the intersection. Advance destination guide signs are not necessary at local street roundabouts or in urban settings where the majority of traffic tends to be familiar with the site.

Exit guide signs

Exit guide signs (D1-1) are recommended to designate the destinations of each exit from the roundabout. These signs are conventional intersection direction signs or directional route marker assemblies and can be placed either on the right-hand side of the roundabout exit or in the splitter island. An example is shown in Exhibit 7-14.

Route confirmation signs

For roundabouts involving the intersection of one or more numbered routes, route confirmation assemblies should be installed directly after the roundabout exit. These provide drivers with reassurance that they have selected the correct exit at the roundabout. These assemblies should be located no more than 30 m (100 ft) beyond the intersection in urban areas and 60 m (200 ft) beyond the intersection in rural areas.