The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has joined the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to recognize the critical role roundabouts play in improving safety and traffic conditions as part of National Roundabouts Week, recognized this year on Sept. 16-20.
Circular in shape, a roundabout is a type of intersection that moves traffic in a counterclockwise direction around a center island eliminating congestion. Its channelized, curved approaches force vehicles to slow down without requiring them to stop and yield to crossing pedestrians or bicyclists and traffic already in the circle.
This configuration results in a significant 78-82% reduction of fatal and serious injuries at formerly signalized and two-way stop-controlled intersections. Other benefits include steady and efficient traffic flow, better intersection visibility and lower speeds for pedestrians and bicyclists.
“With roundabouts, the crash reduction is significant. Along with the glaring safety benefits, roundabouts keep people moving and reduce idle wait times,” said MDOT Executive Director Brad White. “By participating in National Roundabouts Week, we aim to highlight these ongoing efforts to improve road safety and traffic management across the state.”