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New circle intersections
Trooper Kathy Says: I have talked about these before but it seems people aren’t listening until they come to your area. These things are called roundabouts. I checked with the DOT (Department of Transportation) about these. There have not been 260 crashes at one; instead they REDUCE the number of crashes at particular intersections by as much as 50 percent or more. Here is some very good information that I shall pass on to you.
Why Roundabouts:
Increased safety
• Severity of crashes is reduced because of (1) reduced speeds entering intersection, and (2) elimination of the right angle collisions
• Pedestrian refuges can be provided that reduce the length of roadway that must be crossed at one time.
Easier operation
• Stopping is not required unless there is a vehicle in your path
Cost effective – Minimal operations and maintenance costs
• If installed, lighting is the only operational cost.
• No maintenance on signal indications, detector cards, signal power cables. Etc.
More attractive than signals
• Landscaping can be done for a very natural and pleasing appearance.
Motorist driving tips
• When approaching a roundabout, slow down.
• Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk
• When entering the roundabout, yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.
• Merge into the traffic flow when it is safe.
• DO not stop or pass in a roundabout.
• If and emergency vehicle approaches-exit the roundabout and then pull over-do not stop IN the roundabout.
Crash reduction experience
National crash statistics on conversions to Roundabouts (source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) have shown a higher percentage of crash reductions. They range from 35 percent reduction in urban signalized areas to 58 percent & 61 percent reduction in crashes in single lane rural, stop signs and urban stop signs.
Remember, roundabouts can be alternatives to traffic signals and stop signs to control traffic. In many cases they result in fewer injury crashes and fatalities, increase pedestrian safety, result in GAS SAVINGS, and less vehicle delay and pollution.
If you have any questions regarding traffic safety and/or traffic laws, please email her at kathy.pederson@state.mn.us. Sgt. Pederson will not offer advice on specific situations or real events, which involve law enforcement.