Roundabouts: Safer Than Traditional Intersections
Roundabouts. Why are these calming traffic circles so scary and unfamiliar to some people when in reality, they are statistically much safer than traditional intersections? The answer probably lies in the fact that up until the last few years, roundabouts have been a relatively scarce occurrence in most parts of the U.S. However, in North Carolina alone, over 60 roundabouts have been built in the past decade, and the DOT state congestion management engineer says the state could see 600 more in the next ten years. With similar projects being launched in states all over the country, drivers would be wise to familiarize themselves with the rules of roundabouts.
A roundabout is a kind of road junction where traffic flows one way around a central island. Drivers entering the circle must yield to drivers already in the circle, and speeds are slow, around 25 mph or less depending on the size of the roundabout. Different-sized roundabouts can be used on different types of roads; freeway interchanges, T-intersections, and four-way or multi-leg intersections are great places for roundabouts.
How safe are roundabouts? A study of a sampling of roundabouts in the U.S. found that compared to the intersections they replaced, roundabouts resulted in 40% fewer vehicle collisions, 80% fewer injuries and 90% fewer serious injuries and fatalities. Additionally, roundabouts are cheaper to build than intersections with traffic lights, they require almost no maintenance, there is no threat from power outages, and trees, fountains, or statues can be placed in the central island. Another obvious added benefit of roundabouts is that there’s less time wasted waiting for green lights, and as a result, less gasoline is used which puts less pollution into the air. So the next time you’re driving throughout the southeast and you encounter a roundabout, proceed slowly, yield to cars already in the circle, and be thankful for the time and gas you’re saving.
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