Roundabouts improve safety
Accidents at Washington/Oak is currently three times the expected rate for this type of intersection. According to the Federal Highway Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, where a roundabout replaced a signal or stop intersection:
- Collisions reduced more than 35%
- Injury accidents reduced more than 76%
- Fatalities reduced more than 90%
- Pedestrian collisions reduced 40%
- Primary reason for accident reduction is slower traffic speeds
Roundabouts are economical
- No signal equipment
- No power bills, less maintenance
Other project benefits:
- Improved traffic flow, especially for expected increase in traffic in the future
- Fewer stops and accelerations
- Less engine idling
- Provide a distinctive entry point to downtown
- Another step in downtown revitalization as envisioned by the Downtown Specific Plan
Learn more. (PDF)
Navigating a roundabout
It's really not as complicated as you might think. Choose your lane in a multi-lane roundabout the same way you would in a traditional multi-lane intersection. Watch this short video for more information.
Video courtesy City of Indianapolis
Use the right lane to turn right.
Use either lane to go straight.
Use the left lane to turn left.
Use the left lane to make a U-turn.
When approaching a roundabout
- Reduce your speed
- Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists
- Be prepared to stop if necessary, i.e. yield to circulating traffic on the left
Within a roundabout
- Do not stop
- You have the right-of-way over entering traffic
- Always keep to the right of the central island and travel in a counterclockwise direction
Exiting a roundabout
- Maintain a slow speed upon exiting the roundabout
- Always indicate your exit using your right turn signal