Massachusetts Right of Way & Turn Rules

When entering a Massachusetts rotary (roundabout), who has the right of way?

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated Verified against 540 CMR 2.05
A

Vehicles entering the rotary always have priority.

Entering vehicles yield in Massachusetts.

B

Vehicles already inside the rotary have the right of way.

Correct answer

C

The larger vehicle has priority.

Vehicle size is not the basis for right of way.

D

Whichever driver arrives at their entrance first.

Rotaries are not first-come; circulating traffic has priority.

Detailed Explanation

Massachusetts rotary rules are simple: yield to traffic already inside the rotary. Enter only when there is a safe gap. This rule — once confusing in Massachusetts due to older "enter first" conventions — was standardized in 2004 to match modern US roundabout practice.

Source: 540 CMR 2.05

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