No matter how safe you feel on Australia’s roads, many still make a big mistake. Drivers in New South Wales are being warned about a common traffic rule they’re likely to break – and if they’re caught, it could cost them $277.

The Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, part of the NSW Police Force, reminded drivers of the roundabout rule this week, claiming it is one of the most misunderstood on our roads. However, the rule does not only affect NSW residents, as it applies across the country.

Drivers must indicate their exit from the roundabout with the left turn signal, even if they are driving straight on a multi-lane roundabout. “This indiscretion can result in the driver being fined $227 and receiving 2 penalty points,” police said on Facebook this week.

This also applies when going around the roundabout on the right before exiting. In this scenario, drivers must signal right before turning left on the exit.

Myths about roundabouts on Australian roads

According to police, there are “a number of myths surrounding roundabouts.” Another common myth is “who gives way to whom,” police said.

“The rules are clear: when entering a roundabout, drivers must reduce their speed or stop to give way to any vehicle already in the roundabout,” they explained.

“The myth that drivers only have to yield to vehicles on their right is long-standing and completely false. This belief can lead to collisions, insurance claims and police action.”

Similar rules apply across the country, although roundabouts are often problematic. Last month, a Perth teacher became annoyed by a common scenario at roundabouts and argued over who should give way when entering.

A spokesperson for the Western Australia Road Safety Commission clarified the matter, telling Yahoo News Australia: “Most roundabouts have priority lines at each entrance to remind drivers to yield to other vehicles when entering.”

“However, the rule applies even without the lines,” he added, as all vehicles entering a roundabout must yield to oncoming traffic.

Australians react to little-known traffic rules

In response to the post, many drivers were shocked to learn that they have to indicate when exiting a roundabout. One person called it “the worst rule” and said it “causes too much confusion, especially for older drivers who use the right indicator even when driving straight ahead.”

Another said: “This rule only applies to the very large roundabouts.” “It is impossible to indicate when exiting the small roundabouts when you have to deal with other things,” they said.

Many now say they were unaware of its existence and admit that they do not often mention it.

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