Benefits

Roundabouts are increasingly popular because, at appropriate locations, they offer many benefits over intersections controlled by traffic signals or stop signs.

OPERATIONS:
•  Accommodates higher traffic volumes than traffic signals with fewer approach lanes
•  Reduces delay during off-peak times; no waiting at red lights
•  Reduces delay on side-street approaches
•  Can improve travel times along a corridor
•  Effectively handles heavy left-turning traffic
•  Accommodates u-turns for cars and large trucks
•  Can provide better access to businesses because of easier u-turns

DESIGN:
•  Provides more landscaping opportunities
•  Typically provides overall cost savings
•  Allows for large vehicle passage via the “truck apron”
•  Promotes slower speeds through intersection
•  Provides improved visibility and refuge for pedestrians crossing the roadway

MAINTENANCE:
•  Snow removal can be handled by regular maintenance forces
•  No traffic signal maintenance costs, electrical costs, or repair needs
•  No traffic impacts due to power outages

ENVIRONMENT:
•  Increases fuel savings due to less delay and stopping
•  Reduces vehicle emissions due to reduced need for stopping
•  Reduces construction area on approaches that can save trees
•  Reduces stormwater run-off due to reduced pavement area on approaches

SAFETY:
•  Reduces vehicle crashes, particularly injury crashes (see below)
•  Lowers vehicle speeds
•  Fewer driver decisions; traffic only comes from one direction when entering
•  Fewer conflict points
•  Reduces conflict severity; no right-angle or head-on conflicts
•  Safer pedestrian crossings due to reduced distances, lower speeds, better visibility