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Going In Circles

Driving a car, minivan, jeep, pickup or any vehicle involves following orders and understanding symbols. There are signs to warn of a change in road surface and signs to tell us when lanes narrow. There are signs that caution us of work zones. There are signs that advise us of school or hospital zones. There are signs that tell us the appropriate maximum speed. Then there are intersections where each direction carries significant traffic and different rules apply.

Whenever busier roads meet, it no longer makes sense to allow one direction an uninterrupted right of way. This method would create backups that would affect smooth travel, so different methods are used to equalize right of way. For decades the two major methods have been four-way stop signs and traffic lights. The problem with the former method is that it can’t be adjusted to handle differing volumes of traffic. While right of way exists; it still causes back-ups. The problem with the latter is that, while lights can be timed to adjust for traffic flow or additional right of way patterns can be created (such as delayed lights and turn arrows); there are issues with cost of operation, maintenance and breakdowns. Because of these shortcomings, an older, lower-tech method of traffic control is being used…..roundabouts.

Roundabouts are circular roads placed at intersections. Instead of stop signs, traffic must yield and then enter the road. Once on the roundabout, traffic can exit in their desired direction. Roundabouts are better than stop signs since they, naturally, adjust to traffic flow. They are better than traffic lights since they are much less expensive to maintain and mechanical breakdowns are not an issue. However, there is a different issue.

Roundabouts are highly dependent upon the behavior of drivers. They operate best and most safely when drivers enter and exit them while using common sense and courtesy. To accommodate traffic, many roundabouts may be extended in size, have two lanes or consist of both features. Drivers must show courtesy toward each other and be aware of each others’ intentions. When two lanes exist, inner lanes are typically used to travel around the roundabout and the outside lane to enter and exit. Drivers who don’t pay attention may make roundabouts far more dangerous than intersections controlled by stop signs or traffic lights.

If you find yourself going round and round; try to remember that, while it’s an old-school way to handle travel, it is effective and safe as long as you use it carefully and with courtesy toward others.

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