Massachusetts Fines and Limits Permit Practice Test

What must you do when approaching a rotary or roundabout in Massachusetts?

1. Yield to traffic already in the rotary

2. Speed up to merge

3. Always stop before entering

4. Signal left before entering

The correct answer is: Yield to traffic already in the rotary

When approaching a rotary or roundabout in Massachusetts, yielding to traffic already in the rotary is crucial for ensuring safety and smooth traffic flow. This practice allows vehicles already circulating in the roundabout to continue without interruption, thus reducing the risk of collisions and allowing for an efficient transition into the roundabout for incoming traffic. In Massachusetts, the right-of-way rules prioritize those inside the roundabout over those approaching it. This means that as you reach the entrance, you should look for any vehicles already in the roundabout and yield to them, waiting for a safe gap to enter. Other options, such as stopping before entering or speeding up to merge, do not align with proper roundabout etiquette and can lead to confusion or accidents. Additionally, signaling left before entering is not necessary, as drivers should only signal when they intend to exit the roundabout. This helps maintain clear communication among drivers and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings on the road.