Learn whether traffic circles are effective tools to prevent auto accidents.
Roundabouts—Accident Prevention Devices
Car accidents increased on Hillsborough Street when Raleigh installed new traffic circles. Many residents wondered if these roundabouts truly improved motorist safety. Since 1990, 2,000 traffic circles were constructed throughout the nation. Inexperience is the leading cause of roundabout accidents. Confused motorists yield to the wrong driver or fail to change lanes at appropriate times. Once drives are comfortable navigating roundabouts, safety increases dramatically. Converting intersections from four-way stops to traffic circles reduces all crashes by 40% and reduces crash injuries by 80%.
The Benefits of Traffic Circles
- T-Bone Accidents – Intersections with traffic signals and stops signs are dangerous. Drivers who fail to stop at the appropriate time will drive into the side of other vehicles. Roundabouts greatly reduce the number of side-impact crashes at high speeds.
- Rear-end Collisions – Motorists who fail to see stopped traffic cause serious injury during rear-end collisions. Traffic circles reduce the number of vehicles waiting to proceed forward and decrease the chances of a rear-end collision.
- Traffic – Traditional four-way intersections result in stop-and-go traffic. Roundabouts reduce wait times at intersections and improve traffic flow.
- Emissions – Idling vehicles emit gases that create smog and pollute the air. Traffic circles reduce idling times and allow drivers to get to their destination faster. Less time in the car means less emissions and a cleaner environment.
Hold Drivers Accountable
Traditional intersections and roundabouts do not guarantee driver safety. If another person causes a car accident and you suffer damages, then you may be able to recover. An experienced attorney can help you obtain compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Thorp Law has extensive experience fighting for car accident victims. Our team of lawyers and investigators will stand up to the at-fault driver’s insurance company so you can recover.
Our law firm and personal injury attorney handle personal injury, trucking accident, product liability, medical malpractice and other types of cases. Thorp Law handles cases throughout North Carolina, including Wake County, Durham County, Orange County, Johnston County and other counties throughout the state. Contact us today.