Roundabouts continue to confound some motorists.
Traffic engineers have adopted the roundabout based on data that the design reduces serious accidents.
Statistics support the design, but motorists must become accustomed to the pattern. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, vehicles within a roundabout have the right of way; drivers entering a roundabout must be prepared to stop.
The Jefferson City Council on Monday approved a contract to create a new roundabout at Stadium Boulevard and Jefferson Street, adding to existing roundabouts elsewhere in the city.
Last month, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) issued a reminder about navigating a roundabout. The step-by-step guide is:
Slow down - As you approach a roundabout, slow down to the advisory speed and prepare to stop if necessary.
Choose the proper lane - Get in the appropriate lane in advance of the intersection. Right turns must use the right lane only; left turns must use the left turn only. Drivers going straight can use either lane.
Enter the roundabout - When there is a safe gap in all lanes of crossing traffic, proceed into the intersection, keeping to the right of the center island. Stay in your lane.
Exit the roundabout - Once you've safely entered, you have the right of way. When you reach your desired exit point, simply proceed straight ahead out of the roundabout.
Roundabouts have not shed the reputation of being an annoying, invasive species imported from abroad.
They do, however, eliminate the dangerous, T-bone collisions that may occur at the intersections they replace. Based on safety considerations, expect the trend toward roundabouts to continue.
Although the design may enhance safety, proper navigation by motorists remains the most important factor in reducing accidents.