How to Master the Second Exit on a Roundabout

If you’re behind the wheel of a heavy goods vehicle, the second exit on a roundabout can feel like a tricky hurdle. You’re not alone – many learners freeze up or take the wrong lane. The good news? With a few simple habits you can nail that exit every time, whether you’re on a test or just cruising on the road.

Why the Second Exit Matters

The second exit is the most common point of confusion because it requires you to stay in the correct lane while the roundabout is still turning. Miss the lane or signal too early, and you risk drifting into the wrong lane or cutting across traffic. For HGVs, the stakes are higher: a big vehicle needs more space to change direction, and the consequences of a mistake can be severe.

Most driving examiners watch this manoeuvre closely. They look for proper positioning, smooth steering, and timely signals. If you can show control at the second exit, you’re demonstrating a solid grasp of roundabout etiquette – a key part of safe road behaviour.

How to Take the Second Exit Confidently

1. Plan ahead. As you approach the roundabout, check the road signs and decide which exit you need. If it’s the second one, you’ll stay on the right‑hand side (in the UK) and prepare to signal right just before you’re about to leave.

2. Position your vehicle correctly. For an HGV, keep to the far right lane unless signs indicate otherwise. This gives you room to swing wide without clipping the curb.

3. Maintain a steady speed. Aim for a gentle crawl – around 15‑20 mph – that lets you stay in control but still moves with traffic. Too slow can cause other drivers to overtake dangerously; too fast makes steering heavy.

4. Use mirrors and check blind spots. Before you enter, glance at your left and right mirrors to confirm there’s no vehicle trying to overtake. Once you’re on the roundabout, a quick glance over your left shoulder helps you see the lane you’ll be exiting into.

5. Signal at the right moment. Start your right‑hand signal just before the exit, not too early. If you signal too soon, drivers behind might assume you’re leaving at the first exit and could cut you off.

6. Steer smoothly. Turn the wheel gradually as the roundabout curves. For a big truck, avoid sharp jerks – they can destabilise the load and cause sway.

7. Exit cleanly. As you pass the exit marker, keep your signal on, straighten the wheel, and accelerate gently back onto the main road. Check your mirrors again to make sure you’ve merged safely.

Common mistakes include staying too far left, signalling too early, or braking hard right before the exit. Practise each step in a quiet area or low‑traffic roundabout until the sequence feels natural.

Remember, the second exit isn’t about speed – it’s about awareness and smooth control. By following these steps you’ll reduce anxiety, avoid errors on test day, and become a safer HGV driver on any roundabout.