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Roundabout intersections arent new to Wisconsin, but to many Wisconsin drivers roundabouts may be a unique experience.
Roundabouts are designed to redirect traffic without bringing traffic to a complete stop. In terms of safety, some experts say roundabouts are safer for drivers because if an accident occurs, they create shallow-angle crashes and rear-end crashes at slower speeds, unlike right-angle, or broad side, crashes typically seen at signal intersections.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found in a 2000 study of 24 urban and rural roundabouts a 39% reduction in crashes, a 76% reduction in injury crashes and a 90% reduction in fatal accidents. A study performed by the Department of Transportation in Green Bay reaffirms the reduction in the number of accidents at intersections where traditional traffic signals once stood.
Sounds good, right? Well, there are some concerns about the roundabouts, especially when it comes to pedestrian traffic. The consistent flow of automobile traffic may prevent pedestrians from crossing the street and may even be dangerous for the elderly or those with disabilities.
There are a number of roundabouts already in Wisconsin. In fact, Madison and Green Bay have quite a few roundabouts already and the city of Oak Creek may see a dozen roundabouts along 27th Street in the near future, pending the decision of the Wisconsin DOT.
PKSD is a Wisconsin personal injury law firm handling car accident cases through out the state.
