Drivers have been warned that a common mistake motorists often make at roundabouts is not just considered rude, but is against the Highway Code and could result in a fine.

According to a survey by the car insurance team at Compare the Market, six million drivers could be at risk of landing a £50 on-the-spot fine for failing to give way to the right at roundabout junctions, with a quarter of those surveyed unaware of how to signal correctly either. The poll showed that roundabouts are often a source of confusion as drivers are often unaware of the rules surrounding signalling, giving way and taking exits.

Failing to give way was something that many drivers admitted to, but it has to be done, as the Highway Code rule 185 states: "Always give priority to the traffic coming from the right, unless you have been directed otherwise by signs, road markings or traffic lights." The survey also found that over half of UK licence holders (55%) are at risk of the same fine due to driving over mini-roundabouts.

The poll's results also showed that nearly half (48%) admit to driving over a raised roundabout and almost two-thirds (62%) to driving over a flat one. Sections 188 to 190 of the Highway Code state: "It is important to remember that all vehicles must pass round the central markings, unless they are too large to do so. You will find that when driving around mini-roundabouts there is less room to manoeuvre and less time to signal, so take extra care."

Julie Daniels, from Compare the Market, said: "Although you can take the same precautions at a roundabout as you would at any other junction, using a roundabout is considered a complex manoeuvre - it's eye-opening to find out how many drivers are unaware of the correct signals and manoeuvres, or simply ignore the rules put in place to keep themselves and other road users safe. We encourage drivers to refresh their knowledge of proper procedures when using a roundabout junction to prevent fines and avoid any potential accidents.

"In addition to learning - and doing - the correct manoeuvres, make sure you always slow your speed and give yourself enough time to react, watch out for pedestrian crossings, cyclists and drivers crossing the roundabout in the wrong lane and remember to use the mirror-signal-manoeuvre process, which involves checking your mirrors and signalling, before making your move."