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July 2006

ALL ABOUT ... THE ROUNDABOUT!

The intersection of Marburger Drive and Circle Road has been re-designed and constructed to include a "Roundabout." Navigating a roundabout is easy. But because people can be apprehensive about new things, it's important that the campus community learn how to properly use the roundabout safely.

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What is a roundabout?

A roundabout is a one-way, circular intersection without traffic signal equipment in which traffic flows around a center island in a counterclockwise traffic flow. Typical Roundabout (Source: US DOT, Federal Highway Administration)

All roundabouts have these features:

Yield-at-entry

Traffic entering the circle yields to traffic already in the circle.

Traffic deflection

Pavement markings and raised islands direct traffic into a one-way counterclockwise flow.

Geometic curvature

The radius of the circular road and the angles of entry are designed to slow the speed of vehicles.

How is a roundabout safely used?

It's easy! Just follow these simple guidelines.

	Slow down when approaching the roundabout.
	Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists as you enter and exit the roundabout.
	Look to your left for approaching traffic and yield to traffic already in the roundabout.
	Obey one-way signs and circle the roundabout in a counter-clockwise direction.
	Watch for vehicles entering the roundabout and exit carefully.

How do I make a left hand turn?

Left turns are completed by circling around the center island and then making a right turn to exit from the roundabout.

Typical Roundabout (Source: US DOT, Federal Highway Administration)

How do I drive through the roundabout?

Driving straight through a roundabout:

Typical Roundabout (Source: US DOT, Federal Highway Administration)

What are the benefits of a roundabout?

1. Lives saved
   • Crashes are less frequent and severe.
   • Safer than traditional intersections.
   • Slower vehicle speeds (under 15 mph).
   • Drivers have more time to judge and react to other cars or pedestrians.
   • Keeps pedestrians safer.
2. Efficient traffic flow
   • Increase in traffic capacity.
   • Reduction in pollution and fuel use.
3. Money saved
   • No signal equipment to install and repair.
   • Savings in electricity and maintenance costs.
4. Community benefits
   • Traffic calming.
   • Aesthetic landscaping.

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