Roundabouts

What is a Roundabout?

A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows counter-clockwise around a center island. Roundabouts improve traffic flows, reduce motorist and pedestrian injury collisions and fatalities, and increase pedestrian safety.

How to Drive in a Roundabout

• When approaching a roundabout, all drivers must slow down.
• Look at the lane sign and choose the correct entry lane.
• Take extra caution if the pedestrian traffic beacon lights are flashing
• Yield to the pedestrians at the crosswalk and watch out for they have the right-of-way.
• When entering a roundabout, yield to the vehicles already in the roundabout.
• Merge into traffic when there is an adequate safe gap.
• Continue through the roundabout until you reach your exit.
• Do not change lanes.
• When exiting the roundabout, signal and yield to pedestrians .
• Do not pass other vehicles in the roundabout.
• Give large vehicles extra space because they might use both lanes.

Tips for Pedestrians

• Step up to the curb by the designated crosswalk and press the button to activate the traffic beacon.
• Wait for the flashing lights.
• Make eye contact and wait for the drivers to completely stop before stepping onto the street.
• Look and listen for a safe gap in the traffic.
• Cross one approach at a time, using the splitter island to check for approaching traffic.
• Cross only at the designated crosswalks; never cross to the central island.