Roundabouts are un-signalized circular intersections that slow down traffic. Vehicles flow in a counter-clockwise direction, around a central island to several exits onto the various intersecting roads. Entering vehicles must yield to all traffic already in the roundabout.
| What are the benefits of a roundabout? |
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Simplify decision making, as drivers only need to look in one direction for on-coming traffic.
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Reduce the number of conflict points and eliminate the most severe head-on and left-turn crashes at traditional intersections.
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Reduce severity of accidents due to lower speed.
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Reduce vehicle delay by allowing motorists to YIELD rather than STOP.
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Reduce fuel consumption by eliminating idling at red light.
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Eliminate operation and maintenance costs associated with traffic signals.
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| Driving a roundabout |
- Slow down when approaching the roundabout.
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Keep to the right of the splitter island.
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Be aware of your surroundings. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Enter the roundabout only when there is an adequate gap in the circulating traffic flow.
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Vehicles in a roundabout have the right of way and move in a counter clockwise direction.
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Do not pass other vehicles or cyclists in the roundabout.
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Always signal before exiting. Maintain low speeds.
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Beware of pedestrians and cyclists crossing the road as you exit the roundabout.
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Give other vehicles plenty of space.
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The "truck apron" around the middle island is for large trucks when turning.
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| Bicycles |
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Experienced cyclists travel through the roundabout using the same general rules as any other vehicle.
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Merge into traffic before entering the roundabout.
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Once inside the roundabout, ride in the middle of the lane so cars do not pass you.
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If you prefer to walk your bicycle on the sidewalk, dismount at the ramp. Continue on the sidewalks, following the same rules as pedestrians.
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| Pedestrians |
- Cross only at designated crosswalks.
- Vehicles always have the right-of-way in the roundabout. Choose a safe time to cross.
- Never cross to the central island of a roundabout.
- Step on the splitter island when crossing so you can safely cross one lane at a time.
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| Emergency vehicles |
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If you have not entered the roundabout, pull over to let the emergency vehicle pass.
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If you are already inside the roundabout, do not stop. Continue to your exit, then pull over to allow the emergency vehicle to pass.
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Additional information
