Studies have shown that roundabouts are safer than traditional stop sign or signal-controlled intersections. Roundabouts reduced injury crashes by 75% at intersections where stop signs or signals were previously used for traffic control.
Studies by the Federal Highway Administration have shown that roundabouts are safer than traditional stop sign or signal-controlled intersections.
Roundabouts typically achieve:
37% reduction in overall collisions
75% reduction in injury collisions
90% reduction in fatality collisions
40% reduction in pedestrian collisions
Reduce delay, improve traffic flow
Contrary to many peoples’ perceptions, roundabouts actually move traffic through an intersection more quickly, and with less congestion on approaching roads. Roundabouts promote a continuous flow of traffic. Unlike intersections with traffic signals, drivers don’t have to wait for a green light at a roundabout to get through the intersection. Traffic is not required to stop – only yield – so the intersection can handle more traffic in the same amount of time.
Less expensive
The cost difference between building a roundabout and a traffic signal is comparable. Where long-term costs are considered, roundabouts eliminate hardware, maintenance and electrical costs associated with traffic signals, which can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 per year.
Roundabouts are also more effective during power outages. Unlike traditional signalized intersections, which must be treated as a four-way stop or require police to direct traffic, roundabouts continue to work like normal.
Less space
A roundabout may need more property within the actual intersection, but often take up less space on the streets approaching the roundabout. Because roundabouts can handle greater volumes of traffic more efficiently than signals, where drivers may need to line up to wait for a green light, roundabouts usually require fewer lanes approaching the intersection.
Southeastern Site Development build roundabouts, widen roads and build new roadways in Atlanta and all over Georgia.