A roundabout is a one-way circular intersection that reduces traffic congestion while maximizing safety for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. They are different than traffic circles. A roundabout can be thought of as one intersection with an island in the middle, while traffic circles can be thought of as a series of T-intersections.
With slower speeds and fewer points of impact, roundabouts reduce serious and fatal collisions for all users by up to 80 per cent. Roundabouts also reduce delays because drivers yield rather than stop like they would at a red light, and they can handle higher traffic volumes than traditional signalized intersections.
Roundabouts are new for many drivers, but following these basic steps will help you safely navigate roundabouts as a motorist or cyclist: