How to safely drive a roundabout
August 20, 2023
A roundabout is a circular intersection design increasingly being used by MDOT. While some people use the term “roundabouts” and “traffic circles” interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Roundabouts are typically smaller than traffic circles, and drivers must yield to vehicles already in the roundabout before entering.
Roundabouts have been proven to safely decrease traffic delays and congestion. When selected and designed correctly, roundabouts can handle a high volume of traffic, including commercial trucks and large emergency vehicles.
How to Drive a Roundabout
Roundabouts are easy to navigate and safer than traditional intersections. Remember, traffic in the roundabout always moves counterclockwise.
- Choose your lane before entering.
- Yield to traffic already in the roundabout.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Indicate your exit by using your turn signal.
- Use signs and pavement markings to help guide you.
Benefits All Around
Safety: Roundabouts reduce vehicle speeds, as well as the number of conflict points. Roundabouts reduce head-on/left-turn and angle-type crashes that frequently result in serious or fatal injuries. Generally, roundabouts are safer for pedestrians due to the lower speeds.
Reduces Congestion and Pollution: With the use of yield signs instead of stop signs or traffic signals, vehicles are able to enter the roundabout when there are adequate gaps in the traffic flow. This reduces the number of vehicles that have to stop and the time vehicles are stopped. Fewer stops and hard accelerations, as well as less time idling means less pollution. This also reduces delays and increases the capacity of the intersection.
Saves Money: Roundabouts reduce long-term operational and maintenance costs associated with traditional signalized intersections. There are no traffic signals to power and maintain, which can amount to cost savings each year.
Aesthetics: Roundabouts provide more green space and landscape architecture.
For more information, visit https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/travel/safety/road-users/roundabouts
