Drivers spark anger after 'sling-shotting' busy roundabout in bid to dodge queue

16 October 2023 , 09:57

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Drivers were using the quiet right-hand lane to bypass the queue (Image: Media Wales)

Drivers have been causing a stir after being caught using a sneaky technique to skip queues at a busy roundabout. 

Using a move known as "sling-shotting", the drivers were seen pretending to go one way at the roundabout near the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant, only to then drive all the way around the roundabout to cut back into the busy lane.

Wales Online teams saw drivers, even a bus, using the quiet right-hand lane to bypass the queue in the left-hand lane, then cutting back in at the front of the line.

While some might think it's a clever trick, others believe it could cause road rage. The roundabout, next to the South Wales Fire Service HQ and the Finning Cat dealership, used to have a controversial filter lane that let some drivers skip the queue by using the outside lane, then "cutting in" at the exit.

Using a move known as "sling-shotting", the drivers were seen pretending to go one way at the roundabout (Media Wales)

The spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said: "The signage on the approach to this roundabout clearly sets out the intended traffic routes that motorists proceeding north on the A4119 should be positioned in the left hand lane, while vehicles travelling to Llantrisant Business Park should use the right-hand lane. This arrangement has been in place since the works started more than a year ago and has not been altered during this time."

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"We understand the frustrations of motorists that witness other vehicles using the right lane to loop around the roundabout and attempt to 'cut the queue' of traffic waiting to proceed north on the A4119. While there are limited options to prevent this driving behaviour, the Council strongly urges all motorists to comply with the intended traffic routes that are clearly signposted. Upon completion of the dualling scheme, this issue will be resolved."

While sling-shotting isn't a crime in itself, driving carelessly or thoughtlessly can land you with a £100 fine and three points on your licence. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) says that "misusing lanes to gain advantage over other drivers" is considered "careless or inconsiderate driving" under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

The Highway Code also advises that you should be in the "correct lane" as you approach a roundabout. When there are multiple lanes leading to a roundabout, you need to "use the most appropriate lane on approach and through it". You can read more here.

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Angharad Thomas