Roundabouts in New York: Tips for Navigation

In Central New York, more roundabouts are being introduced to manage traffic flow and increase safety for road users. These circular intersections offer a safer alternative to traditional T-shaped crossroads and can help reduce accidents.

Studies show that roundabouts can lower injury crash rates by up to 80% for vehicles. They have also reduced pedestrian accidents at intersections by 75% compared to conventional intersections.

If you’re unfamiliar with roundabouts, knowing how to move through them smoothly can help you feel more confident and lower the risk of an accident.

What Is a Roundabout?

A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows in one direction around a central island, allowing vehicles to enter and exit via connecting roads. This type of intersection is designed to improve traffic flow and safety by reducing vehicle speeds and minimizing conflict points.

Unlike a standard intersection, which can have up to 32 potential vehicle-to-vehicle conflict points, a roundabout reduces this number to just 8. Other features that make roundabouts safer than conventional intersections include:

• Reduced Speed Limits: Speed limits are typically lower at roundabouts, encouraging slower driving and increasing reaction time.

• Fewer Lanes to Cross: Drivers only deal with one traffic stream, reducing the complexity and risk of accidents when entering or exiting.

• Elimination of Light Signals: Traffic flows continuously without the need for stop lights, reducing the risk of accidents associated with signal changes.

• Simpler Decision-Making: Drivers only turn right to enter and exit the roundabout, simplifying the driving process.

• Reduces Aggressive Driving: The curved paths and yield-at-entry rules promote slower, more deliberate driving.

• Safer Pedestrian Crossings: Crosswalks are set back from the circulating traffic, giving drivers more time to see and yield to pedestrians.

Safely Navigating a Roundabout

While roundabouts can make the roads safer, these structures can also confuse drivers who aren’t used to them. The following steps can help you successfully move through a roundabout, improving your confidence when encountering one:

• Know Your Destination: Before you reach the roundabout, determine which exit you need to use. Most roundabouts have signs before the entry point indicating the directions or street names associated with each exit.

• Anticipate the Roundabout: As you approach a roundabout, you’ll usually encounter yellow signs featuring a black circular symbol, signaling its presence. These signs prompt you to slow down and often display the number of exits, which can assist you in mapping your path through the roundabout.

• Yield Before Entering: As you near the roundabout, observe the traffic circulating around the central island. Pay attention to the speed and positioning of the vehicles to determine when it’s safe to merge. Remember to yield to cars already in the roundabout and only enter when there’s a clear gap in the traffic.

• Driving Inside the Roundabout: Merge with the traffic at a consistent speed and follow the circle. If you miss your exit, continue around the roundabout until you return to the correct exit. Maintain your lane and remain alert to other vehicles entering and exiting.

• Exiting the Roundabout: When you’re ready to exit, use your right turn signal to inform other drivers of your intention to leave the roundabout. If the roundabout is multi-lane, ensure you’re in the most right-hand lane. Maintain a low speed, veer right, and watch for pedestrians and cyclists as you exit.

What Should You Do if You’re Involved in a Roundabout Accident?

Although roundabouts are designed to be safer, accidents can still occur. If you’re involved in a roundabout accident, follow these steps:

• Immediately check for injuries and ensure all parties are safe. If needed, call emergency services.
• If possible, move vehicles to a safe location to avoid blocking traffic.
• Swap contact and insurance details with the other driver(s) involved.
• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the roundabout, nearby signage, your injuries, and vehicle damage.
• Notify the police per New York law and obtain a copy for insurance claims.
• Inform your insurance company about the accident to start your claim.
• Speak with a qualified Syracuse car accident lawyer from Catalano Law to guide you through the claims process and protect your rights.

Get Experienced Legal Help from Catalano Law

Whether you’re in a crash when navigating a roundabout, a traditional intersection, or any road in Central New York, you need a skilled attorney who can fight for your rights. At Catalano Law, we have over five decades of combined experience helping accident victims get fair compensation for their injuries.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We can review your case and advise you on potential legal strategies for your claim.