Why A Roundabout?
While some drivers are initially hesitant about driving roundabouts, studies show that after driving a roundabout, most people favor them over a traditional traffic signal.
Studies have also shown that roundabouts are safer than traditional stop signs or signal-controlled intersections because they require drivers to slow down to maneuver through the intersection.
At intersections with relatively lower traffic volumes, mini-roundabouts like the one planned at Golden Given Road East / 99th Street East can reduce, or avoid altogether, the additional right-of-way needed from normal roundabouts. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) studies have shown that roundabouts typically achieve:
- A 37 percent reduction in overall collisions.
- A 75 percent reduction in injury collisions.
- A 90 percent reduction in fatality collisions.
- A 40 percent reduction in pedestrian collisions.