Drivers on new Carlisle 'bypass' don't know how to use roundabouts - claim

Exclusive By Phil Coleman

Last updated at 09:19, Saturday, 03 March 2012

Motorists are getting themselves in a spin over how to handle the roundabouts on Carlisle’s new western 'bypass', it has emerged.

Have your say

Maybe some people dont know how to use roundabouts but i think alot of people are still getting used to the new roads and the correct exit to come off! Its only been open a few weeks - give it time i say!!

Posted by Kate on 8 March 2012 at 20:54

I absolutely agree, people do not know how to use the roundabouts..I use the new roundabout on the A595 at Peter Lane,I dread there being much traffic on it when I use it, it's making me very nervous. I even change my direction to where I'm going to stay safe...I stick to the left as much as possible, I hate turning right on it...There is definitely going to be a few accidents..People should know how to use it, but the fact is they don't.

Posted by Sandra Huddart on 8 March 2012 at 16:37

There would not have been a problem if the new road had been dual carrigeway,you would have had 2 lanes for the people that dont know how to use a roundabout,but does evening news not think that a positive story about the road like what has the traffic been like in the town etc not be a better story

Posted by dave on 8 March 2012 at 07:47

Can someone please explain to me where the 12 O'clock 'Rule' came from? If people bothered to read the Highway Code (Rule 186) they will find it is does not exist. It states that for turning RIGHT or going FULL CIRCLE the right lane should be used. For intermediate junctions, which would include any between 1 degree past 9 O'clock and 1 degree before 3 O'clock the MOST APPROPRIATE lane should be used.

Furthermore, other DSA publications (bus and coach driving manual) state that long vehicle drivers should use the left lane even when turning right or going full circle.

Posted by Anon on 7 March 2012 at 19:26

I never understood why the decision was made to replace the roundabouts at the top of James street and the junction of junction street and dalston road with lights as they both worked perfectly well if drivers used them as taught, then when hardwick circus became a part time roundabout it just got even more unbelievable. If a driver doesn't know how to use a proper roundabout then they should not be driving.

Posted by told you so on 7 March 2012 at 16:49

I've used the road twice and when iv came off the roundabouts after'12 o clock' drivers come fyling round in outside lane and you can't saftly exit roundabout without someone cutting you up I am only a young driver but they seem to be many older drivers that seem to have no idea how u drive round a roundbaout maybe the '12 o clock' rule is new or something???? Either way its a matter of time before a serious accident especially on the roundabout at asda!! I would rather drive through the town saftly than use that road!

Posted by lucy on 7 March 2012 at 16:43

IT'S NOT THAT HARD

Posted by Brian on 7 March 2012 at 16:28

@Mike on 5 March 2012 at 21:57
Bloody hell mate, are ur fingers sore after that rant?

Posted by Hate Bunny Hoppers on 7 March 2012 at 13:17

Unfortunately Cumbria recently seems to be infested with people who don't seem to know what they are doing when behind a wheel. It doesn't matter if the roundabout is new or old- its still a roundabout and rules are same.
A lot of people drive recklessly and a lot of people drive paranoidly cautiously and whilst they think they are safe - they are also likely to cause accident indirectly too. And don't even mention 60 mph middle lane hoggers on near to empty motorway :)

Posted by Gaudi on 7 March 2012 at 11:52

Dellboy: Hardwicke Circus roundabout... I recall my workmate telling me of his friend who purchased a new car at the then Ford County Garage adjacent to the roundabout. He had just taken delivery of the car and halfway around the roundabout the car was slammed into and badly damaged as soon after he drove it back into the dealership. I think he had a little cry as no mileage was on the clock but this shows that you are not entirely correct about the mentioned roundabout (nil) accidents as I frequently have seen accidents on this roundabout some of which the cars have landed almost into the gardens near the pedestrian underpass. I walk my dogs alongside many city roads and yes mobiles used whilst driving but how many driving instructors tell you one of the first things you do before driving off.... Fasten Your Safety Belt. Just a quick survey whilst out for a walk I counted six motorists, or their passengers in space of less than one hour. Some cannot virtually read the road as where it say's KEEP CLEAR they're going that fast that they end up on the markings just as Box Junctions which I was always informed was an instant penalty for blocking exits.

Posted by Roy on 7 March 2012 at 09:04