Roundabouts

A new kind of traffic control device is gradually being implemented across the nation as a means of alleviating intersections where accidents and congestion are prone. In fact, roundabouts may already be in place in your location. The modern roundabout is gaining popularity throughout the United States and whenever there is new construction or re-construction road projects, roundabouts are getting serious consideration. Here in Upper Michigan, not a single roundabout is in existence, but that may eventually change. As far as I know, two such high impact intersections where I live are planned to be re-constructed within the next five years and the state department of transportation has recommended that they be turned into roundabouts.

Traffic approaching a roundabout should slow down. Yield signs are present so that vehicles already within the roundabout have the right away. When it appears that there is an opening to enter the roundabout, you may do so. Recommended speeds within a roundabout are between 15 and 20 mph. If you intend on making a right turn, stay in the right lane and make your turn. If you wish to continue straight through a roundabout, either stay in the right or left lane (whichever lane is appropriate for the type of roundabout you are in) and maneuver through the roundabout. Lastly, if you intend to make a left turn within the roundabout, stay in the far left lane and when your turn approaches, make your left turn. Remember that speeds within a roundabout are pretty slow and traffic within these intersections are generally one-laned.

When I first heard the concept of a roundabout, it seemed confusing as heck to me. I honestly didn't think it could possibly work. But once I studied and understood them a little better, they seem to be a decent choice for traffic control. Now they do not work well at every intersection which is why traffic studies are conducted to see whether they really work or not at a particular location. Apparently it has been determined that they work well in the two locations that MDOT has conducted studies at. I am willing to give them a chance, but usually most people are either for or against them. And people are hesitant to change, even if it is for the better (which I think it is). One thing that I am particularly interested in seeing is how they will do in wintery climates. From a video clip I watched from the New York Department of Transportation's website, the plows seem to be able to clear them fairly easily. But with the way the road commission is around here, I have my doubts. It could end up being a nightmare in that regard.

MDOT has a preliminary timetable to reconstruct these intersections in 2011, so there is definitely time to get used to the idea of driving within a roundabout. And for an area where traffic patterns have not changed in some 30 to 40 years, this will be a big change. Who's to say the plans won't get changed again and we'll be in store for another intersection with signal lights. Like I said earlier, I am willing to give them a chance, but you can be sure I will be a bit hesitant driving through them once they are officially opened - which I am sure a lot of people will be. And if anyone else out there happens to come across this blog and drives through roundabouts from time to time, please leave a comment regarding your reactions of these traffic control devices. I'd love to hear them!