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.”

There are several simple guidelines to remember when driving through a roundabout:

• Slow down.
• Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists.
• Yield at the entry to circulating traffic.
• Stay in your lane within the roundabout and use your right-turn signal to indicate your intention to exit.
• Always assume trucks need all available space—don’t pass them!
• Clear the roundabout to allow emergency vehicles to pass.

According to FHWA, more than 10,000 roundabouts have been installed in cities and towns across the U.S. These intersections can reduce traffic delays and stops by up to 74%. In addition to the safety and efficiency benefits, roundabouts reduce congestion, pollution and fuel use.

For more information about roundabouts and National Roundabouts Week, visit the FHWA campaign at highways.dot.gov/safety/intersection-safety/nrw and MDOT’s YouTube channel.