Car crashes occur for a variety of different reasons. Often, human error is a main contributing factor. Drivers become negligent because they are too comfortable with the hazards of motor vehicle transportation. They might also openly violate traffic statutes, possibly by failing to use a turn signal or exceeding the appropriate speed limit.
Certain types of conduct in traffic have a strong association with collision risk. Specific maneuvers, such as left turns, are responsible for a large portion of crashes. Driver inattention and the failure to communicate with others in traffic also contribute substantially to collisions.
A large number of the crashes in every year take place at intersections in particular. As a result, the Kansas Department of Transportation has begun recommending the use of roundabouts when installing new roads or expanding existing ones.
Can roundabouts that replace traditional intersections help reduce the number of crashes that occur?
Roundabouts can improve traffic safety
There are several ways that roundabouts improve traffic safety. Their installation in residential neighborhoods can help slow the overall flow of traffic. They also eliminate many of the hazards of a traditional intersection.
Of course, there is a learning curve when they are new to an area. Drivers who do not understand how to navigate roundabouts can slow down traffic and might cause crashes by driving inappropriately while approaching or in a roundabout. However, once people acclimate to a roundabout at a busy intersection, it can potentially reduce the likelihood of a crash occurring.
Instead of vehicles directly approaching each other, they yield and wait for an opportunity to join the flow of traffic. Left-hand turns are not necessary when there is a roundabout, as every turn to exit is a right-hand turn. Vehicles do not cross paths with each other, making communication issues a less pressing issue.
Overall, roundabouts can significantly reduce some of the most pressing safety concerns that contribute to intersection collisions. Of course, they do not eliminate crash risk. Drivers might still turn in the wrong direction when entering a roundabout or may fail to yield to traffic already in the roundabout.
Those who consistently follow traffic laws and focus on safety can decrease their risk of a car wreck and also their chances of being held liable for a crash if one does occur. Additionally, learning about roundabouts and other risk-reduction strategies could help drivers plan safer routes when they travel or commute.