I am writing in response to a letter titled "Unhappy with roundabout." To start with, I would suggest that all drivers read roundabout rules at wsdot.wa.gov safety/roundabouts. I'm sorry you were in an accident, but after reading your description of the incident I believe all three drivers involved could be ticketed for failure to observe the rules of the road. The car that rear ended you was obviously following too close. The car that entered the roundabout from your right failed to yield the right away when he cut you off. He didn't know your intention to exit because you failed to use your turn signals. You stated in your letter that "there is no way to convey one's intentions on the matter" (i.e. exiting the roundabout). The use of your turn signals would have done the trick. The web site above clearly states that on both single- and double-lane roundabouts that it is mandatory to use your signals when exiting a roundabout. I called the State Patrol today and the officer I spoke to confirmed this requirement. Regrettably, very few people here in Bellingham follow this simple rule.

Edward Marzahn

Lynden