What is the purpose of a roundabout?

A roundabout is designed primarily to reduce vehicle collisions. The circular design of a roundabout forces vehicles to slow down as they approach, thereby minimizing the speed at which they enter the intersection. This reduction in speed is a key factor in reducing the severity and frequency of collisions. Additionally, the continuous flow of traffic in a roundabout helps to eliminate the chance of head-on and high-speed right-angle crashes, which are more common at traditional intersection configurations.

While enhancing traffic flow is also a benefit of roundabouts, the primary safety feature is their ability to reduce crash likelihood and severity, making the road environment safer for all users. In terms of pedestrian crossings and emergency vehicle access, these considerations are important but secondary to the main purpose of improving overall traffic safety.