Research shows that roundabouts are the safest traffic pattern for four-way intersections. Some drivers find roundabouts tricky to navigate, and traffic circles are uncommon in some parts of the country. Roundabouts are circular traffic intersections that have unique traffic control features. Roundabouts have no stop signs or stop lights, and traffic only moves one way in a counterclockwise direction. Vehicles merge in and out at different points in the roundabout, maintaining speeds of around 30 miles per hour or less.
The circular traffic pattern in roundabouts reduces vehicle conflict points. That means fewer car accidents. Specifically, left-turn, right-angle, and head-on collisions are less common in roundabouts compared to traditional, four-point stops.
Drivers must slow down to adjust to the flow of roundabout traffic. Lower speeds are linked to less severe injuries when crashes do happen. Also, crossing roundabouts is generally safer for pedestrians because they only have to cross traffic moving in one direction and vehicles are moving slower.
Tips for Driving Through Roundabouts
If you do not have a lot of experience driving through roundabouts, or just feel a bit anxious as you approach one, try these tips for a safe ride:
- Reduce your speed when approaching and traveling in a traffic circle.
- Wait for a gap to enter, and avoid entering directly next to another vehicle in case they intend to leave at the next exit.
- Never stop your vehicle in a roundabout unless you are attempting to avoid a crash.
- Keep your position in relation to other vehicles, staying inside if you entered from the left and on the outside if you entered from the right.
- Only change lanes when you are ready to exit.
- When approaching your desired exit, turn on your right turn signal and leave it on throughout your exit.
- Do not attempt to overtake over vehicles and/or cyclists when moving through a roundabout.
What to Do After a Roundabout Accident?
While roundabouts are shown to be safer than traffic lights and stop signs, traffic accidents are not entirely preventable. If you are involved in a crash, medical attention should be your first priority. Next, call the police and file a police report.
Be sure to collect any evidence from the accident scene, and exchange contact information with anyone else involved, including witnesses. If you are hurt or have property damage, contact a car accident lawyer to discuss your options.
Towson Car Accident Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Can Give You Legal Advice if You Have Been Injured in a Roundabout Accident
If you need legal help after a roundabout accident, consult our Towson car accident lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC. Located in Hunt Valley and Towson, Maryland, we serve clients in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Bel Air, Bentley Springs, Columbia, Freeland, Hereford, Hampton, Westminster, Essex, Monkton, Sparks Glencoe, Parkton, Phoenix, Pikesville, White Hall, Carroll County, Harford County, and Howard County. Call us at 443-589-0150 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation today.
