Roundabout Intersection Tips
Roundabouts are a specific type of traffic junction that utilize a circular driving path for cars to navigate the intersection of two or more roadways. While this type of intersection is less common in the U.S. than in Europe or other parts of the world, there are still thousands of roundabouts dispersed throughout the U.S.
Recent years have seen an increase in popularity in building these intersections in areas of new development. Some people have protested the building of new roundabouts, since they are confusing for some drivers. However, studies have shown that for drivers who know the rules of roundabouts, they are safer than intersections regulated by lights or signs. The main safety issues for roundabouts are driver education and the safety of cyclists.
Safety Tips
When you approach a roundabout, follow these tips for safety:
- Check the roundabout for a clear path of entry
- Pay special attention to the presence of cyclists, for whom roundabouts pose more risk
- Maintain awareness of oversize vehicles, which can have difficulty navigating the turns of roundabouts
- Do not come to a stop in the roundabout unless absolutely necessary
- Avoid changing lanes
- Signal when you wish to exit
- Check for a clear path of exit, again double-checking for cyclists
These simple steps should help keep you and other drivers safe. One important note is that while roundabouts are safer for drivers than other intersections, the opposite is true for cyclists. Cyclists should note how the roundabout directs them to proceed: those that merge cyclists with general traffic are much safer than older designs, which usually place cyclists in an exterior lane.
Contact Us
Unfortunately, if another driver acts recklessly when going through a roundabout, it can cause catastrophic pileups. If another driver’s negligence led to your injury in a roundabout accident, call 312-466-8200 to speak to the Chicago auto accident lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C., today.