What is the purpose of a roundabout in traffic?

The primary purpose of a roundabout is to reduce traffic accidents. Roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow and safety by creating a circular intersection where vehicles navigate in one direction around a central island. This design minimizes the likelihood of high-speed collisions that are common in traditional intersections with traffic signals and stop signs.

By having vehicles yield upon entering the roundabout, the potential for head-on and T-bone crashes decreases significantly, as drivers are focused on yielding to the traffic already in the roundabout. Additionally, the continuous movement often leads to fewer severe accidents compared to those at traditional intersections where vehicles may be traveling at higher speeds or coming to a complete stop. Thus, the roundabout effectively enhances safety for both drivers and pedestrians while also improving overall traffic efficiency.