The US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration explains that a roundabout, sometimes called traffic circles, or rotaries, are circular intersections meant to “safely and efficiently” move traffic. Traffic enters through usually curved approaches, yields to traffic from the left, then proceeds into the counterclockwise flow around an island.
Department of Transportation data shows roundabouts can reduce crashes that cause in death by roughly 80% compared to two-way stop intersection or those will stop lights. The Roundabout Database, which relies on data contributions that are manually verified, says Florida has the most roundabouts of any state at about 1470.
Roundabouts improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of serious accidents at intersections. In areas where roundabouts are appropriate for use, they tend to be convenient alternatives to a traditional traffic intersection. Locations throughout Southwest Florida have implemented roundabouts to attempt to decrease traffic and create a smoother flow of traffic. They are also an environmentally friendlier alternative to traffic lights in that they keep the flow of traffic moving and use no electricity to run.
However, despite their benefits, roundabouts can still be the site of collisions if drivers fail to navigate them safely. In Florida, like in many other places, roundabout accidents occur due to several common causes.
4 Common Causes of Roundabout Accidents
Roundabout accidents aren’t uncommon, and neither are the ways they occur. In fact, there are four fairly common causes of roundabout accidents: failure to yield, incorrect lane usage, speeding, and failing to look for pedestrians and cyclists.
Failure to yield
One of the primary causes of roundabout car accidents is the failure of drivers to yield to vehicles already in the circle. When approaching a roundabout, drivers must yield to both pedestrians and vehicles that have the right-of-way. Failing to yield can lead to side-impact collisions or even more severe accidents.
Incorrect Lane Usage
Another common cause of roundabout accidents is incorrect lane usage. Roundabouts typically have multiple entry and exit lanes, and drivers must choose the appropriate lane based on their intended exit. Accidents can occur when drivers enter the roundabout from the wrong lane or attempt to change lanes within the circle.
Speeding
Excessive speed is a significant contributing factor to roundabout accidents. Drivers who enter roundabouts at high speeds have less time to react to other vehicles and pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Speeding in a roundabout also reduces a driver’s ability to safely navigate the circle and can lead to loss of control or the inability to stop in time to avoid a collision.
Not Watching Out for Pedestrians or Bicyclists
Another issue which causes accidents is the failure for drivers to fail to yield right away to pedestrians or bicyclists attempting to cross the streets that surround the roundabout. It is very easy to get distracted trying to navigate through the roundabout and fail to notice people attempting to cross. Conversely, the pedestrians and bicyclists also can get confused or attempt to cross when it is not clear or safe to do so.
Roundabouts Are Here to Stay
While they are becoming a common sight, many drivers may be prone to experiencing an accident in a roundabout due to their unfamiliarity. You can keep yourself and others safe on the road by knowing what to expect in all situations.
Because we are a local and family-owned business, Pittman Law Firm, P.L., is very familiar with the roads that Bonita Springs residents are traveling every day. If you are involved in an accident due to the negligence of another driver, call our personal injury lawyers today for a free consultation. We can help from our convenient locations in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, and Naples. There is never any fee unless we win your case.
Contact us now to learn more and request an initial consultation.