Safety at Roundabouts
Roundabout intersections are those that utilize a small circular path for cars to take rather than employing the traditional lights or stop signs used at most intersections. Although roundabouts are not terribly common in the U.S., they have seen periods of increased popularity, with most being built in the 1960s and in the past decade.
There are some people who wish to have roundabouts banned entirely because some drivers are unaware of how to proceed at these intersections. However, roundabouts tend to reduce driver accidents, if drivers are educated about how to proceed at such an intersection. The main safety issue with roundabouts is for cyclists, though developers are working to address these safety issues.
Navigation Tips
If you are unsure of how to use a roundabout, follow these tips:
- Be sure to yield to cars already in the roundabout, paying attention to their signals
- Be aware of large vehicles as you enter the roundabout
- Watch out for cyclists, especially when you enter and exit the roundabout
- Avoid changing lanes or stopping while in the roundabout
If you are a cyclist, be aware that roundabouts pose some increased danger for you, especially those constructed with an outer lane for cyclists. More modern roundabouts merge cyclists and cars well ahead of the intersection – be sure to pay attention to any such signs. If a roundabout seems unsafe, you may want to find an alternative route to avoid it.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident at a roundabout and you feel another party or person was to blame, contact the Wisconsin car accident attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. to speak with someone about your situation. Call us today at 800-242-2874.
