Roundabout Revolution Sweeping US

chrb writes "BBC News reports that U.S. cities are installing more roundabouts than ever before. The first British-style roundabout appeared in the U.S. in 1990, and now some cities — such as Carmel in Indiana, are rapidly replacing intersections with roundabouts. Supporters claim that roundabouts result in increased traffic flow, reductions in both the severity and incidence of accidents, and fuel savings. Critics say that roundabouts are more difficult to navigate for unfamiliar American drivers, lead to higher taxes and accidents, and require everyday acts of spontaneous co-operation and yielding to others — acts that are 'un-American.'" As a driver who's hit all of the continental U.S. states except North Dakota, I dread roundabouts and rotaries for all the near accidents (and at least one actual accident) I've seen them inspire, and have been unhappy to see them spread. Spontaneous driver cooperation doesn't necessarily need the round shape, either.

Comments

Are North Americans really, really shit drivers?

[Anonymous Coward]

Are you all "terrified" of roundabouts? Or are you all too stupid/arrogant/self-important to remember "give way to the left"? We have roundabouts everywhere in Britain and I've seen as many accidents with someone slamming into another car at a roundabout as I have someone slamming into another car at lights: one apiece.

I'm really bewildered by the antagonism here.

Also, "will lead to higher taxes". Fucking hell. I know the Tea Party people are fucking insane but I didn't realise they were that batshit.

As for chrb, I think you should have your license removed. Anyone terrified of roundabouts should go back to driving school because you're a fucking menace to the roads, roundabouts or not.

Re:Rt 70 and 73 in NJ

[Joce640k]

The USA is just a bunch of NIMBYS. This thread is living proof.