Roundabouts are not common in most American roadways. However, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has been utilizing roundabouts for over a decade and are in process of building and planning to implement more roundabouts across the state.
Thus, Louisiana drivers need to familiarize themselves with the rules of how to use a roundabout.
Roundabouts are one-way circular intersections where traffic flow moves through a center island in a counterclockwise manner.
Roundabouts are designed to enhance the flow of traffic for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Roundabouts are also adapted to improve traffic safety by redirecting some of the conflicting traffic that causes crashes to traditional intersections.
There are numerous benefits to adapting roundabouts. Some of these benefits of a roundabout include:
According to the DOTD, the proper way of using a roundabout are as follows:
Bicyclists are expected to use a roundabout in the same manner as their automobile driver counterparts. Bicyclists should refer to the instructions listed above on how to use a roundabout properly.
In addition to the instructions above, the following tips apply to bicyclists using a roundabout:
To safely walk through a roundabout, a pedestrian must adhere to the following instructions:
Even though pedestrians have the right of way in the roundabout, it is important to be alert and cautious of the oncoming traffic to prevent accidents.
Yes, they can.
Roundabouts accommodate all land motor vehicles, including trucks, buses, or other large vehicles. In fact, the part of the roundabout called the Truck Apron, which is the area between the circulatory roadway and the central island, is designed for the rear wheels of these large vehicles to safely track to accommodate their large turning radius.
Among automobile drivers and bicycle riders, the priority rule is that whoever inside the roundabout has the right of way over any driver entering the roundabout, regardless of the direction they are coming from. Thus, every entrance to the roundabout has a yield sign.
However, it is essential to note that the pedestrian has the right of way in a crosswalk, regardless of whether the automobile driver or bicycle rider is entering or exiting the roundabout.
If you have been involved in an accident in a roundabout in Louisiana, you should speak with us. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have extensive knowledge in representing the interest of our clients in traffic accidents. Please feel free to give us a call at (225) 963-9638, or you can click here to contact us about a free consultation.