Roundabouts

[kappy]

Even though we all received brochures on how to navigate the roundabouts, there is still much confusion. I spoke with a very nice gentleman at our postal box today who, I observed, proceeded to go 3/4 of the way around a roundabout, however was in the right, outside lane when he entered the gate. According to all the literature, brochures, You Tube videos, he should have been in the left, inside lane.

The posted diagrams and yield signs do not seem to be sufficient for many drivers. Now that the snowbirds are back, the problem seems to be getting worse.

I believe that one solution would be to have worded signs along with the diagrams. One sign should say, "Vehicles in the roundabouts have the Right Of Way". Another sign should say, "Vehicles making a left hand turn (going 3/4 around) MUST be in the left hand lane and vehicles making a right hand turn MUST be in the right hand lane".

I have no idea what it would cost to do this or even who is responsible for doing it. However, I certainly feel that the cost would be worth it if there were fewer accidents.

[Sandtrap328]

By the time most of the drivers would have read the signs, they would already be past their turn-off point, and knowing how these snowbirds and renters drive, they would most likely try backing up to their proper exit! :beer3:

[tomwed]

What about having only 1 lane? It's called a Modern Roundabout

What is a Modern Roundabout?

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/single_roundabout.gif

Simply stated, a modern roundabout is a transportation management tool that moves traffic through an intersection without the aid of traffic signals. More specifically, a modern roundabout is an intersection with one-way circulation around a central island where entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to the traffic circulating within the roundabout.

A modern roundabout should not be confused with traffic rotaries or circles, which are much larger, with higher speeds and multiple lanes for entering and exiting. As traffic volumes increase, collisions and traffic jams can occur because vehicles are not required to yield to traffic before entering.

Traffic engineers recognized the deficiencies associated with traffic rotaries and circles, and incorporated slower speeds and "yield on entry" into modern roundabouts. for more click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)

[delima2000]

I agree with tomwed one lane in the roundabouts. That would solve all of the problems

[romanpaula]

Yes, let's go for the modern roundabout! Pls no snowbird bashing, we're keeping this economy going! And the locals, the way they drive?? I always drive in the outer lane of the roundabout, since I'm afraid of those who quickly dart right and exit!!

[Barefoot]

I believe that one solution would be to have worded signs along with the diagrams. One sign should say, "Vehicles in the roundabouts have the Right Of Way". Another sign should say, "Vehicles making a left hand turn (going 3/4 around) MUST be in the left hand lane and vehicles making a right hand turn MUST be in the right hand lane".

I don't think posting two signs at each roundabout would help to avoid accidents.
People would be taking their attention off the road to read the signs at a time when they should be paying full attention to their driving.
We've never had a roundabout thread where everyone agreed on proper procedures.
If we all drive defensively, driving as if anyone, at any time, could do something unexpected and dangerous, we will all probably be OK.

[Bogie Shooter]

There are signs at the entrances to all roundabouts...............Read them!
:popcorn::popcorn:

[Phanatic Luvr]

Maybe a better idea is for someone to contact the Daily Sun and request they run a HUGE good driving campaign on the front page. This would also need to be re-run around March 1st or 2nd when the new wave of seasonals come in. And, continue to run it on occasion, throughout the year for newbies and some of the residents who still don't get the round-abouts. Just my thoughts ...

[twoplanekid]

I agree with the concept of the modern roundabout as that is what we have around our square in Urbana, Ohio. The two main roads through Urbana meet at this intersection.

If I am proceeding south along Buena Vista and then enter the left most turn lane for Hillsborough, I always have to look behind and to the right for a car that is also turning left onto Hillsborough. There are two lanes yet I now need to get into the right lane to access the residents gate and not the visitors gate which is on the left. Look at the Google Earth view of this situation which is probably duplicated many times over in the Villages. I am just more familiar with this turn as it's the turn for home for me.

[kcrazorbackfan]

"Sign, sign, everywhere a sign

Blockin' out the scenery, breakin' my mind

Do this, don't do that, can't you read the sign?"

5 Man Electrical Band - 1971

More signs aren't needed; heck, people don't even see the stop signs in TV.:cus:

Simple roundabouts would be a lot easier to navigate, but, those in TV will never be changed.

[buzzy]

On Morse and Buena Vista, this would just move the accidents upstream, where the two-lane road necks down to one lane for the roundabout.


What about having only 1 lane? It's called a Modern Roundabout

What is a Modern Roundabout?

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/single_roundabout.gif

Simply stated, a modern roundabout is a transportation management tool that moves traffic through an intersection without the aid of traffic signals. More specifically, a modern roundabout is an intersection with one-way circulation around a central island where entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to the traffic circulating within the roundabout.

A modern roundabout should not be confused with traffic rotaries or circles, which are much larger, with higher speeds and multiple lanes for entering and exiting. As traffic volumes increase, collisions and traffic jams can occur because vehicles are not required to yield to traffic before entering.

Traffic engineers recognized the deficiencies associated with traffic rotaries and circles, and incorporated slower speeds and "yield on entry" into modern roundabouts. for more click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)

[sunnyatlast]

I agree with the concept of the modern roundabout as that is what we have around our square in Urbana, Ohio. The two main roads through Urbana meet at this intersection.

If I am proceeding south along Buena Vista and then enter the left most turn lane for Hillsborough, I always have to look behind and to the right for a car that is also turning left onto Hillsborough. There are two lanes yet I now need to get into the right lane to access the residents gate and not the visitors gate which is on the left. Look at the Google Earth view of this situation which is probably duplicated many times over in the Villages. I am just more familiar with this turn as it's the turn for home for me.

It's been discussed at length on TOTV about the fact that the county highway engineers required the 2-lane roundabouts, because of the high volume of traffic that needs to keep moving.

As for trying to turn left and then scramble to get into the Resident's lane for the gate coming up, that, too has been discussed at length:

Forget about the Resident's lane at that type of entrance, and use the Visitor lane so you can safely stay in the same lane in which you came 3/4 of the way around the circle. Both Visitor and Resident lanes have the gate card readers and the red button to raise the gate.

[Polar Bear]

...Forget about the Resident's lane at that type of entrance, and use the Visitor lane so you can safely stay in the same lane you came around the circle 3/4 of the way in. Both Visitor and Resident lanes have the gate card readers and the red button to raise the gate.

What sunny said.

[CFrance]

What about having only 1 lane? It's called a Modern Roundabout

What is a Modern Roundabout?

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/single_roundabout.gif

Simply stated, a modern roundabout is a transportation management tool that moves traffic through an intersection without the aid of traffic signals. More specifically, a modern roundabout is an intersection with one-way circulation around a central island where entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to the traffic circulating within the roundabout.

A modern roundabout should not be confused with traffic rotaries or circles, which are much larger, with higher speeds and multiple lanes for entering and exiting. As traffic volumes increase, collisions and traffic jams can occur because vehicles are not required to yield to traffic before entering.

Traffic engineers recognized the deficiencies associated with traffic rotaries and circles, and incorporated slower speeds and "yield on entry" into modern roundabouts. for more click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)
Perfect.

[Polar Bear]

I agree with tomwed one lane in the roundabouts. That would solve all of the problems

Not at all, most especially the ones created by halving the capacity (or worse) trying to funnel all traffic into a single lane.

By the way, TV roundabouts...even with two lanes...meet the definition of a Modern Roundabout. From the Transportation Research Board:

DEFINITION OF THE MODERN ROUNDABOUT:
The term modern roundabout is used in the United States to differentiate it from the nonconforming traffic circles or rotaries that have been in use for many years, primarily in the Northeast. Modern roundabouts are defined by two basic operational and design principles:
1. Yield-at-Entry: Also known as off-side priority or yield to-left rule, yield-at-entry requires that vehicles in the circulatory roadway have the right-of-way and all entering vehicles on the approaches have to wait for a gap in the circulating flow. To maintain fluidity and high capacity, the entry control is a YIELD sign. As opposed to nonconforming traffic circles, modern roundabouts are not designed for weaving movements, thus allowing smaller diameters. Even for multi-lane roundabouts weaving movements are not considered a design or capacity criterion.
2. Deflection for Entering Traffic: No tangential entries are permitted, and no traffic stream gets a straight movement through the intersection. Entering traffic points toward the central island, which deflects vehicles to the right, thus causing low entry speeds.

[tomwed]

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/double_roundabout.gif

Multi-lane Roundabout
I found it on the same site. click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)

Is this what we have?
Modern is not my definition. And maybe this also would be considered modern.

I really haven't studied it the way someone who does this for a living would. It just seems to me that one lane may slow traffic down and be less confusing. This would make it safer.

[tomwed]

Another thought

I guess I only took into consideration car drivers. Emergency vehicles and business people have different needs and faster instead of slower my save someone's life or at least keep the trucks moving.

So I guess I just went around the Modern Circle of thought. whew

[JoMar]

There are signs at the entrances to all roundabouts...............Read them!
:popcorn::popcorn:

There are arrows on the pavement that seem pretty clear to me......and pretty universal.....I still don't understand why people make them so difficult.....treat it like a 4 way intersection....aside from the occasional collision most navigate the intersections at BV and Morse and 466A pretty well....wait, they have arrows telling you which way to go......so do the RABS

[twoplanekid]

Forget about the Resident's lane at that type of entrance, and use the Visitor lane[/U] so you can safely stay in the same lane in which you came 3/4 of the way around the circle. Both Visitor and Resident lanes have the gate card readers and the red button to raise the gate.

Thanks and I will try that upon my return next weekend although I hate to have the nice gate guard get up from their seat every time I go through using the visitor gate.

[Polar Bear]

Thanks and I will try that upon my return next weekend although I hate to have the nice gate guard get up from their seat every time I go through using the visitor gate.

Many (most?) visitor gates have card readers to activate the gate. If not though, it is still safer to stay in the left lane like your instincts tell you. I don't think your gate guard will mind at all. :)

[CFrance]

Thanks and I will try that upon my return next weekend although I hate to have the nice gate guard get up from their seat every time I go through using the visitor gate.
There is no way to exit the roundabout from the inside lane without crossing over the outside lane. Going in the visitor's gate still necessitates you to cross over the outside lane.

[kittygilchrist]

What sunny said.

Ditto

[Polar Bear]

There is no way to exit the roundabout from the inside lane without crossing over the outside lane. Going in the visitor's gate still necessitates you to cross over the outside lane.
Of course that's true. But that does not constitute a lane change. Going from the inside lane in the roundabout to the left (visitor) lane is a simple continuation of your lane to exit the circle as intended. If you head to the right (resident) lane, your are making a lane change and could conflict with a simple right turn from the outside lane. Any possible conflict with through traffic on the outside lane must be avoided in the same manner that is always required...caution and awareness.

[LndLocked]

Look over there!!

It's a snow bird, riding a bike while saving a seat and their dog poops!!

[Bonanza]

[QUOTE=Bogie Shooter;1004361]There are signs at the entrances to all roundabouts...............Read them!
QUOTE]

Reading the signs doesn't do any good. If anything, they make navigating the circles more confusing.

The painted lines belie what the signs say. According to the lines, you can change lanes within the circles.
The signs indicate you stay in either the inside or outside lane without a lane change.
In addition, not all painted lines are the same within all the circles.

It's no wonder no one drives them the same way!

[Bonanza]

Maybe a better idea is for someone to contact the Daily Sun and request they run a HUGE good driving campaign on the front page. This would also need to be re-run around March 1st or 2nd when the new wave of seasonals come in. And, continue to run it on occasion, throughout the year for newbies and some of the residents who still don't get the round-abouts. Just my thoughts ...

Until such time as the signs and painted lines on the street agree with one another, you could run an ad every day and it would be meaningless.

In addition, we have too many people, too many circles and at least half of us will die before such time as we all drive them the same way.

[tuccillo]

Excellent advice.

It's been discussed at length on TOTV about the fact that the county highway engineers required the 2-lane roundabouts, because of the high volume of traffic that needs to keep moving.

As for trying to turn left and then scramble to get into the Resident's lane for the gate coming up, that, too has been discussed at length:

Forget about the Resident's lane at that type of entrance, and use the Visitor lane so you can safely stay in the same lane in which you came 3/4 of the way around the circle. Both Visitor and Resident lanes have the gate card readers and the red button to raise the gate.

[Bogie Shooter]

Thanks and I will try that upon my return next weekend although I hate to have the nice gate guard get up from their seat every time I go through using the visitor gate.

But, that exercise helps keep him healthy!:laugh:

[Bogie Shooter]

Look over there!!

It's a snow bird, riding a bike while saving a seat and their dog poops!!

Bashing snow birds is no longer an intelligent activity................

[Bogie Shooter]

Until such time as the signs and painted lines on the street agree with one another, you could run an ad every day and it would be meaningless.

In addition, we have too many people, too many circles and at least half of us will die before such time as we all drive them the same way.

How many deaths have there been in The Villages roundabouts?

[tomwed]

How many deaths have there been in The Villages roundabouts?
At 20 mph? Even if someone goes around counter clock-wise, has a head on, my guess is none
How many fender benders? Do they keep those records?

I don't have any trouble navigating the circles. Circles are quite common where I am from but I don't want even a fender bender if they are confusing for others.

Since they seem to be a sore spot with this tiny per centage of the population my hunch is that it might be a problem with many others.

I like how something as trite as a circle, raking a trap, or why a scotch on the rocks cost more then a scotch straight up can be discussed at great length. To me, it's a sign that for most of us; Life is Good.

[Warren Kiefer]

What about having only 1 lane? It's called a Modern Roundabout

What is a Modern Roundabout?

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/single_roundabout.gif

Simply stated, a modern roundabout is a transportation management tool that moves traffic through an intersection without the aid of traffic signals. More specifically, a modern roundabout is an intersection with one-way circulation around a central island where entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to the traffic circulating within the roundabout.

A modern roundabout should not be confused with traffic rotaries or circles, which are much larger, with higher speeds and multiple lanes for entering and exiting. As traffic volumes increase, collisions and traffic jams can occur because vehicles are not required to yield to traffic before entering.

Traffic engineers recognized the deficiencies associated with traffic rotaries and circles, and incorporated slower speeds and "yield on entry" into modern roundabouts. for more click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)

I have supported this concept since the first roundabout was constructed.
The most extreme cases are where the two lane roundabouts have exiting into a single lane. So what we have here is perhaps two cars side by side in a two lane roundabout with both trying to exit into a single lane street. If this isn't dangerous, nothing is. This can be viewed at the Morse/Rte 441 circle. The safest solution is for all vehicles to navigate the roundabouts is by staying in the roundabout outer lane.

[Warren Kiefer]

Maybe a better idea is for someone to contact the Daily Sun and request they run a HUGE good driving campaign on the front page. This would also need to be re-run around March 1st or 2nd when the new wave of seasonals come in. And, continue to run it on occasion, throughout the year for newbies and some of the residents who still don't get the round-abouts. Just my thoughts ...

The information that has been published on how to navigate a roundabout here in the Villages would be two feet tall. The Sheriff has published numerous diagrams.

[Warren Kiefer]

There are arrows on the pavement that seem pretty clear to me......and pretty universal.....I still don't understand why people make them so difficult.....treat it like a 4 way intersection....aside from the occasional collision most navigate the intersections at BV and Morse and 466A pretty well....wait, they have arrows telling you which way to go......so do the RABS

Part of the problem and a big gripe for me is the failure of nearly 100% of drivers navigating a roundabout to ever use their turn signals to indicate their intention. Every Villager should take a few minutes to observe traffic in a roundabout, you will be shocked at how few drivers ever use a turn signal when making a right turn exiting from the roundabout. I have never viewed Law Enforcement stopping anyone for not using the required turn indicator.

[billethkid]

How about we work on just one rule at a time?

My vote would be for ....if you are in the outside lane (the one next to the curb...) then you MUST leave the circle at the very next exit.....no continuing to the next exit in the outside lane.

Signs? Too many do not read or obey the ones that are crystal clear like stop and speed limits!!!

I would also vote for speed humps (yes not bumps) to slow the Indy 500 crowd.

[Average Guy]

Part of the problem and a big gripe for me is the failure of nearly 100% of drivers navigating a roundabout to ever use their turn signals to indicate their intention. Every Villager should take a few minutes to observe traffic in a roundabout, you will be shocked at how few drivers ever use a turn signal when making a right turn exiting from the roundabout. I have never viewed Law Enforcement stopping anyone for not using the required turn indicator.

Then there is also the opposite problem. I was waiting to enter a roundabout, looked to my left and saw only one car and it was in the outer lane. The driver of that car had the right turn signal on. I thought it was great that finally someone was using their turn signal. I anticipated that that car would be exiting to my left on the roundabout, thus allowing me to enter the roundabout without having to wait for that vehicle to pass by me. Fortunately, I was cautious and waited anyway because the driver did not exit the roundabout but continued on and exited at the following exit. :cus:

So, caution should be used even if a driver has the turn signal on because that is no guarantee that they will actually turn. Expect the unexpected.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Part of the problem and a big gripe for me is the failure of nearly 100% of drivers navigating a roundabout to ever use their turn signals to indicate their intention. Every Villager should take a few minutes to observe traffic in a roundabout, you will be shocked at how few drivers ever use a turn signal when making a right turn exiting from the roundabout. I have never viewed Law Enforcement stopping anyone for not using the required turn indicator.

LEO's would not have time to do anything else, LIKE DOING REAL POLICE WORK CATCHING BURGLARS AND DUI's, if they concentrated their valuable time writing turn signal infractions. Law enforcement gets bashed enough now on TOTV, just think of the hell raising that would occur if they started writing tickets to the "entitled" for not using a turn signal. It would not be pretty.

Back to the original OP, roundabouts are a way of life in TV. It keeps traffic moving better vs a normal intersection (which has stop signs that no one stops at anyway). Just drive defensively.

[tomwed]

I know how my GPS has helped me.

In a new area that has many clovers and highways converging I no longer try to read the signs. I just make a left or merge right when the lady on the phone tells me.

I wonder if this has made more attentive of the other drivers around me since I no longer need to read signs or guess which side of the highway I should be in for the next exit.

Or has this dumbed me down and dulled my instincts.

I love the technology. I don't like the newest inventions. I don't think I could sit in the back seat of a car with no driver.

[tomwed]

I would also vote for speed humps (yes not bumps) to slow the Indy 500 crowd.

not me--if I'm in the back of any ambulance, please make it a smooth ride

ooooh----i reread. i never heard of a speed hump. how are they different?

[memason]

LEO's would not have time to do anything else, LIKE DOING REAL POLICE WORK CATCHING BURGLARS AND DUI's, if they concentrated their valuable time writing turn signal infractions. Law enforcement gets bashed enough now on TOTV, just think of the hell raising that would occur if they started writing tickets to the "entitled" for not using a turn signal. It would not be pretty.

Back to the original OP, roundabouts are a way of life in TV. It keeps traffic moving better vs a normal intersection (which has stop signs that no one stops at anyway). Just drive defensively.

Just watch the LEO's around the Villages and see how often they use their turn signals.... You might be surprised.

[bagboy]

On a daily basis we all see drivers using the roundabouts improperly, and I am sure that is not going to change. It just amazes me how complicated some people make this. In most if not all cases, two lanes approach a circle. If a car is in the right lane, it can go straight, or make the first right. If a car is in the left lane, it can go straight or go around to make a left. A very simple concept without the need for signage, arrows, flashing lights, etc.
If you are making the left and have to scramble to get into the residents lane, a driver should not be next to you. They are not yielding right of way to you, the driver already in the circle. But I know this happens frequently. Having a drivers license comes with the responsibility of knowing how to legally operate your vehicle on public roadways. Roundabouts, intersections, etc. Still, it would be wise to be very cautious and always expect the unexpected.

[Chi-Town]

An important rule is to YIELD to traffic already in the roundabout.

[cquick]

In my opinion, many newbies panic in the roundabouts. They don't realize that they can just keep on driving straight, and make a complete circle at the next roundabout to get back to their original turn. Too many people try to turn left from the right lane!

[daca55]

I agree with Tomwed. One lane would end all the confusion and I believe they are idiot proof. The only sign necessary is the car in the circle has the right of way.

[Challenger]

I agree with Tomwed. One lane would end all the confusion and I believe they are idiot proof. The only sign necessary is the car in the circle has the right of way.

Worth a try on at least one circle for a month or so!

[villagetinker]

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/double_roundabout.gif

Multi-lane Roundabout
I found it on the same site. click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)

Is this what we have?
Modern is not my definition. And maybe this also would be considered modern.

I really haven't studied it the way someone who does this for a living would. It just seems to me that one lane may slow traffic down and be less confusing. This would make it safer.

Nowhere have I seen any documentation what you are supposed to do at the multiple roundabouts with the yellow lines forcing you to ONE LANE, see attached photograph. Perhaps if all of the roundabouts were the SAME it would eliminate some of the confusion.

[annaconner]

It is as simple as that- left turn, left lane, right turn right lane, straight on both lanes.

[tomwed]

If there was just one lane on the right for everyone but emergency vehicles maybe that would speed them up to their destination too. Whenever I hear a siren I look in the mirror and always seem to move to the right as far as I can. I don't remember if that's what I was taught or that's what I read, it's just an automatic response to get out of the way.

[alzjr]

It's been discussed at length on TOTV about the fact that the county highway engineers required the 2-lane roundabouts, because of the high volume of traffic that needs to keep moving.

As for trying to turn left and then scramble to get into the Resident's lane for the gate coming up, that, too has been discussed at length:

Forget about the Resident's lane at that type of entrance, and use the Visitor lane so you can safely stay in the same lane in which you came 3/4 of the way around the circle. Both Visitor and Resident lanes have the gate card readers and the red button to raise the gate.

That is way too simple to understand. How can these roundabout threads continue with such an easy answer.

[alzjr]

Maybe a better idea is for someone to contact the Daily Sun and request they run a HUGE good driving campaign on the front page. This would also need to be re-run around March 1st or 2nd when the new wave of seasonals come in. And, continue to run it on occasion, throughout the year for newbies and some of the residents who still don't get the round-abouts. Just my thoughts ...

The Daily Sun had a complete article on roundabouts in Thursday's paper. Trouble was it was hidden in the Recreation New's weekly article called Our Place.

[Polar Bear]

To those who say a single lane would solve the problems...do you really think that Morse and Buena Vista could function as 2-lane roads? Because if you want the roundabouts to have a single lane, that is what you're asking for. 4 lanes on Morse and Buena Vista would be a total waste and not increase capacity by a single vehicle over 2 lanes if they had to funnel down to one lane to enter the circles.

The threads complaining about the resulting traffic backups, the conflicts caused by the required merging (if Morse and Buena Vista were kept as 4-lane roads), and the enormous delays would dwarf those now complaining about the roundabouts.

[alzjr]

Approach a roundabout in the left lane and go around in the inside lane 10 times and exit. Approach the next roundabout in the right hand lane and try to go around 10 times in the outside lane without getting hit. Please post your results.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Just watch the LEO's around the Villages and see how often they use their turn signals.... You might be surprised.

Probably very few percentage. I'm surprised we don't have a lot of Gomer Pyle's trying to make citizens arrests on LEO's for things like that. 😉

[buzzy]

Nowhere have I seen any documentation what you are supposed to do at the multiple roundabouts with the yellow lines forcing you to ONE LANE, see attached photograph. Perhaps if all of the roundabouts were the SAME it would eliminate some of the confusion.

You've got that right. Most people that I've seen, just drive over it. The written guidelines just ignore it.

[villagetinker]

It is interesting because every article I have seen shows TWO (2) COMPLETE lanes around the roundabouts, so back to my original question why are some for these LINED OUT for the interior lanes????

[Mikeod]

It is interesting because every article I have seen shows TWO (2) COMPLETE lanes around the roundabouts, so back to my original question why are some for these LINED OUT for the interior lanes????
Those are lined out where the road you are entering is only one lane. This prevents two vehicles from trying to exit onto a single lane road. You'll see this at the Buena Vista roundabout near Turtle Mound, and the one on Morse near the County Annex before the bridges. There are others but I can't think of them right now. Interestingly the one near the Sarasota range has two lanes even though the Moyer Loop has only one lane.

[Polar Bear]

Those are lined out where the road you are entering is only one lane. This prevents two vehicles from trying to exit onto a single lane road. You'll see this at the Buena Vista roundabout near Turtle Mound, and the one on Morse near the County Annex before the bridges. There are others but I can't think of them right now....

Yep. Another example is the roundabout at Morse heading into Lake Sumter Landing.

[njbchbum]

With the way TOTV posters moan and groan about the folks who drive too fast and the folks who drive too slow besides the folks who don't know how to navigate a roundabout...can you imagine the threads and posts that would result from the way no one merged properly into the one lane around the roundabout? Oy vey!

[villagetinker]

Those are lined out where the road you are entering is only one lane. This prevents two vehicles from trying to exit onto a single lane road. You'll see this at the Buena Vista roundabout near Turtle Mound, and the one on Morse near the County Annex before the bridges. There are others but I can't think of them right now. Interestingly the one near the Sarasota range has two lanes even though the Moyer Loop has only one lane.

AHH! I see the point, I had not noticed the SINGLE LANE roads to the side. Very good point, thank you.

[Barefoot]

The safest solution is for all vehicles to navigate the roundabouts is by staying in the roundabout outer lane.


If you are in the outside lane (the one next to the curb...) then you MUST leave the circle at the very next exit.....no continuing to the next exit in the outside lane.


I understand the frustration of posters who keep repeating valid instructions on how to navigate the roundabouts properly.
However the nature of The Villages is a lot of newbies and renters and seasonal residents.
The above two posts written by two esteemed residents of The Bubble offer conflicting advice.
This is why roundabouts will continue to be dangerous.
If two experienced Frogs disagree, then renters and newbies just can't be expected to always follow the rules.
Many people don't have time to read the signs without stopping at the yield sign - which will only serve to infuriate the drivers behind.
Roundabouts will continue to be driven according to the whim of the driver.
I continue to see people whizzing through the roundabouts without a care or caution in the world.
The only way to survive is to expect the unexpected, slow down, and drive defensively.

[billethkid]

Probably very few percentage. I'm surprised we don't have a lot of Gomer Pyle's trying to make citizens arrests on LEO's for things like that. 😉

There is no citizen's arrest rule/law in Florida.

I personally believe if there was we would see some improvement in how people drive here in TV.

Having a citizen's arrest dictates one must be able to prove the claim as well as confronting who is accused....face to face. This is where the bravery and bravado of the anonymous shrinks to a whisper or no comment at all!!!

[Bonanza]

How many deaths have there been in The Villages roundabouts?

How many deaths? I have no idea, but there are accidents caused by people who don't know how to drive around these circles.

Judging by the number of ongoing threads and posts on this subject tells you that everyone drives them differently and therein lies the problem.

[PaPaLarry]

Best Way? Go by cart!!!!:BigApplause::BigApplause:

[outlaw]

Where I moved from, we had one area in the city where roundabouts were installed. There were two lanes of traffic merging into and exiting single lane roundabouts. Contrary to what some may think, during rush hours, the traffic moved smoothly through these roundabouts. Was there some back up of cars at the entrance to the roundabout? Yes. But much less than if you had a stop sign or a light at these intersections. I, too, was surprised that the two lanes to one lane would not have caused a lot more congestion, but it didn't. I wish the authorities would try one at the northern side of TV and see how it works. I think people would be pleasantly surprised. And it would be much less chaotic.

[memason]

Honestly,I don't believe there's anything that could be done to the round-a-bouts to satisfy everyone.

These are very simple to navigate, just the way they are. There's only a couple simple rules to get through them safely; it's not rocket science. These rules have been beaten to death and posted at every round-a-bout, but we still have the same complaints.

Single lane round-a-bouts would be no different, since one of the overriding rules would still be neglected...YIELD to anyone already in the round-a-bout; both lanes.

[CFrance]

Where I moved from, we had one area in the city where roundabouts were installed. There were two lanes of traffic merging into and exiting single lane roundabouts. Contrary to what some may think, during rush hours, the traffic moved smoothly through these roundabouts. Was there some back up of cars at the entrance to the roundabout? Yes. But much less than if you had a stop sign or a light at these intersections. I, too, was surprised that the two lanes to one lane would not have caused a lot more congestion, but it didn't. I wish the authorities would try one at the northern side of TV and see how it works. I think people would be pleasantly surprised. And it would be much less chaotic.
I agree with you, Outlaw. In the last week I have encountered 5 cars mis-navigating the roundabout at the St. James gate--entering at the same time as the car beside it and going 3/4 the way around in the outside lane. You can't fix arrogance, and you can't get to enough of the public to point out what they're doing wrong. The signs obviously are not helping, probably because they are being ignored.

It would take some simple striping to narrow these roads down to one lane going into the roundabout and make the RAB one lane. Everybody exits to the right, and no lane changing. It has been working in Europe forever. Only in big cities do they have roundabouts with more than one lane. And we are not a big city.

[LndLocked]

Where I moved from, we had one area in the city where roundabouts were installed. There were two lanes of traffic merging into and exiting single lane roundabouts. Contrary to what some may think, during rush hours, the traffic moved smoothly through these roundabouts. Was there some back up of cars at the entrance to the roundabout? Yes. But much less than if you had a stop sign or a light at these intersections. I, too, was surprised that the two lanes to one lane would not have caused a lot more congestion, but it didn't. I wish the authorities would try one at the northern side of TV and see how it works. I think people would be pleasantly surprised. And it would be much less chaotic.

A- the possibility of the powers that be EVER changing a 2 lane roundabout into 1 lane is < slim to none.

B - NO THANKS!! Please keep any and all "test cases" confined to south of 466. We here in the northern hinterlands lead a relatively tranquil life, free of the "problems" that seem to vex so many, so much in the "south"

[red tail]

Where I moved from, we had one area in the city where roundabouts were installed. There were two lanes of traffic merging into and exiting single lane roundabouts. Contrary to what some may think, during rush hours, the traffic moved smoothly through these roundabouts. Was there some back up of cars at the entrance to the roundabout? Yes. But much less than if you had a stop sign or a light at these intersections. I, too, was surprised that the two lanes to one lane would not have caused a lot more congestion, but it didn't. I wish the authorities would try one at the northern side of TV and see how it works. I think people would be pleasantly surprised. And it would be much less chaotic.

why the northern side???

[LndLocked]

I agree with you, Outlaw. In the last week I have encountered 5 cars mis-navigating the roundabout at the St. James gate--entering at the same time as the car beside it and going 3/4 the way around in the outside lane. You can't fix arrogance, and you can't get to enough of the public to point out what they're doing wrong. The signs obviously are not helping, probably because they are being ignored.

It would take some simple striping to narrow these roads down to one lane going into the roundabout and make the RAB one lane. Everybody exits to the right, and no lane changing. It has been working in Europe forever. Only in big cities do they have roundabouts with more than one lane. And we are not a big city.

By euro standards ..... a "city" of 100K is most dif a "big city"

[CFrance]

A- the possibility of the powers that be EVER changing a 2 lane roundabout into 1 lane is < slim to none.

B - NO THANKS!! Please keep any and all "test cases" confined to south of 466. We here in the northern hinterlands lead a relatively tranquil life, free of the "problems" that seem to vex so many, so much in the "south"
That brings up an interesting thought. Perhaps because you are built out, there are fewer newbies and everyone has learned the roundabout system.

Maybe when it gets built out around 466A the RAB problems will be fewer. Although we're younger down here, more arrogant and more in a hurry!:D:crap2::crap2:

[graciegirl]

Honestly,I don't believe there's anything that could be done to the round-a-bouts to satisfy everyone.

These are very simple to navigate, just the way they are. There's only a couple simple rules to get through them safely; it's not rocket science. These rules have been beaten to death and posted at every round-a-bout, but we still have the same complaints.

Single lane round-a-bouts would be no different, since one of the overriding rules would still be neglected...YIELD to anyone already in the round-a-bout; both lanes.


This man is WAY smarter than most. I agree with him once again.

[CFrance]

By euro standards ..... a "city" of 100K is most dif a "big city"
Even London only has one multi-lane roundabout, and it just opened last November.

I disagree with you about 100,000 being a big city in Europe. There's 450+ cities with population over 100,000 in Europe.

[buzzy]

Where I moved from, we had one area in the city where roundabouts were installed. There were two lanes of traffic merging into and exiting single lane roundabouts. Contrary to what some may think, during rush hours, the traffic moved smoothly through these roundabouts. Was there some back up of cars at the entrance to the roundabout? Yes. But much less than if you had a stop sign or a light at these intersections. I, too, was surprised that the two lanes to one lane would not have caused a lot more congestion, but it didn't. I wish the authorities would try one at the northern side of TV and see how it works. I think people would be pleasantly surprised. And it would be much less chaotic.

The problem here is that people came from areas without roundabouts, and are too set in their ways to adapt.

[Mickedamouse24]

:MOJE_whot:If you can't follow simple traffic signs and traffic laws just stay off the streets. Take your golf cart while traveling in The Villages! Pretty simple fix!! And we won't bring up the subject of stop signs only being a "suggestion!" here!!!

[CFrance]

The problem here is that people came from areas without roundabouts, and are too set in their ways to adapt.
That's why single lane roundabouts would be better. No way to get confused about which lane to be in to go where.

Yes it should be simple, and yes, the people should read the signs, but they don't. If they did, we wouldn't even be having this discussion for the umpteenth time. So simply stating read the signs and drive accordingly is not working.

[Challenger]

I like the Circles. That being said and after following all the pertinent rules they still present a challenge and require complete situational awareness. I find that trying to get into the Resident gate is especially challenging if you have been in the inside lane.

I still prefer Circles to traffic lights.

[Mike W]

Navigation of roundabouts (single or double lane) is going the be an issue until the entire country has the same number of roundabouts as intersections. I do service work for a living in the Great White North (aka Minnesota) and put on a lot of miles on my van every week. That being the case I probably encounter a roundabout in MN maybe once a month. So whenever I'm in TV for our semi-annual visit I review the brochure about roundabouts and I'm good to go for the week or so I'm here. Once we move here permanently, I'll throw the brochure in the trash because I'll be navigating multiple roundabouts on a daily basis.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

What about having only 1 lane? It's called a Modern Roundabout

What is a Modern Roundabout?

http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/Portals/0/images/public_works/roundabouts/single_roundabout.gif

Simply stated, a modern roundabout is a transportation management tool that moves traffic through an intersection without the aid of traffic signals. More specifically, a modern roundabout is an intersection with one-way circulation around a central island where entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to the traffic circulating within the roundabout.

A modern roundabout should not be confused with traffic rotaries or circles, which are much larger, with higher speeds and multiple lanes for entering and exiting. As traffic volumes increase, collisions and traffic jams can occur because vehicles are not required to yield to traffic before entering.

Traffic engineers recognized the deficiencies associated with traffic rotaries and circles, and incorporated slower speeds and "yield on entry" into modern roundabouts. for more click here (http://www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-departments/public-works/engineering-division/driving-modern-roundabouts)

THIS IS RIGHT ON THE MARK.... ALL ROUND-A-BOUTS SHOULD BE ONLY ONE FREAKING LANE. END OF PROBLEMS ! :BigApplause:

[Polar Bear]

Honestly,I don't believe there's anything that could be done to the round-a-bouts to satisfy everyone.

These are very simple to navigate, just the way they are. There's only a couple simple rules to get through them safely; it's not rocket science...

Yep.

[Polar Bear]

THIS IS RIGHT ON THE MARK.... ALL ROUND-A-BOUTS SHOULD BE ONLY ONE FREAKING LANE. END OF PROBLEMS ! :BigApplause:

This one still boggles my mind. Do you really think you can do this on Morse and BV without enormous delays, congestion, conflicts, redesign, cost?!?. And if you're willing to tolerate the redesign (not only of the roundabouts, but of Morse and BV) and the cost, the enormous delays, congestion and conflicts caused by having only a single lane would still be there.

[bagboy]

And we will all merge from 2 lanes to 1 lane in the same polite, orderly, and safe fashion that we always experience when approaching construction, landscaping or utility work, or auto accidents??? And the road narrows to one lane... maybe the concrete trucks will drive slowly side by side to make sure no one cuts in front of all polite, courteous, full time driving residents.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

THIS IS RIGHT ON THE MARK.... ALL ROUND-A-BOUTS SHOULD BE ONLY ONE FREAKING LANE. END OF PROBLEMS ! :BigApplause:

I honestly think that would make the round abouts more confusing and more dangerous. One lane round abouts would be fine if we were coming off of one lane roads, but I can just imagine all of the confusion and accidents caused by people trying to merge as they enter the round about.

[outlaw]

why the northern side???

The northern end seems a little less crowed, and I think would be sufficient for a trial run.

[outlaw]

This one still boggles my mind. Do you really think you can do this on Morse and BV without enormous delays, congestion, conflicts, redesign, cost?!?. And if you're willing to tolerate the redesign (not only of the roundabouts, but of Morse and BV) and the cost, the enormous delays, congestion and conflicts caused by having only a single lane would still be there.

I've experienced it first hand, and yes, I do think it would be an improvement and worth the relative small cost of paint and signage.

[Bogie Shooter]

And we will all merge from 2 lanes to 1 lane in the same polite, orderly, and safe fashion that we always experience when approaching construction, landscaping or utility work, or auto accidents??? And the road narrows to one lane... maybe the concrete trucks will drive slowly side by side to make sure no one cuts in front of all polite, courteous, full time driving residents.

You are so right!

[Polar Bear]

I've experienced it first hand, and yes, I do think it would be an improvement and worth the relative small cost of paint and signage.


First hand where? Maybe at a location with low traffic volumes, single lane approach streets, etc.. Specifics matter. You certainly haven't experienced it in TV.

If you're talking about nothing but some signs and paint, that means your plan is to simply merge existing traffic on Morse and BV into a single lane at or before each circle?! With all due respect, that would be a disaster and...thankfully...will never happen.

[graciegirl]

When these innovators finally move here and get used to them, they will see that driving a roundabout is not too big a deal.

Sheesh.

New people are usually scared of driving a golfcart on Morse Bridge too. One of the things both have in common is that you HAVE to slow down. And pay attention.

[tomwed]

The roundabout should be intuitive. A yield sign upon entering a single outside circle is enough.
When an emergency vehicle needs room they can stay in the fast lane, cross the double yellow lines on the inside circle entering and exiting while everyone pulls over to the right.

Try it out down by Brownwood. We're fairly new down here with not as much traffic and see if it helps, hurts or makes no difference.

[CFrance]

I honestly think that would make the round abouts more confusing and more dangerous. One lane round abouts would be fine if we were coming off of one lane roads, but I can just imagine all of the confusion and accidents caused by people trying to merge as they enter the round about.
We've been driving them for years like that, and it's eazy peazy. There's a merge down to one lane, enter the RAB, take exit of your choice. No decisions to make... it's all laid out for you.

[buzzy]

Simple solution. Make one of the lanes a toll lane, and nobody would ever use it.

[Polar Bear]

We've been driving them for years like that, and it's eazy peazy. There's a merge down to one lane, enter the RAB, take exit of your choice. No decisions to make... it's all laid out for you.

You'd just have to decide what to do with all the time on your hands while you await your turn to go through the roundabout. :)

[red tail]

Simple solution. Make one of the lanes a toll lane, and nobody would ever use it.

unless they had a coupon...:1rotfl:

[Mikeod]

People. The multi lane roundabouts were a requirement for TV to grow. They will not be converted to a single lane. Navigating them is easy. All one has to do is look at the signs that are placed before the RAB. It clearly defines what a vehicle in each lane can do. Once in the RAB, continue to the exit allowed by the lane you were in entering. Right lane for right turn or straight, left lane for straight, left turn (3/4 around), or U turn. Ignore lane markings within the RAB except to stay in your lane. There is no way the lane markings can be accurate since each driver is entering from a different point. Your entry lane determines your path around the RAB.

[Barefoot]

Yes it should be simple, and yes, the people should read the signs, but they don't. If they did, we wouldn't even be having this discussion for the umpteenth time. So simply stating read the signs and drive accordingly is not working.


Navigating them is easy. All one has to do is look at the signs that are placed before the RAB.

Posting instructions on TOTV doesn't make people drive roundabouts any more safely. Signs don't do the trick either.
I do enjoy these roundabout threads though. It temporarily diverts the attention away from dog poop threads.

[spring_chicken]

How many deaths? I have no idea, but there are accidents caused by people who don't know how to drive around these circles.

Judging by the number of ongoing threads and posts on this subject tells you that everyone drives them differently and therein lies the problem.

Everyone drives everything differently. The number of ongoing threads on this subject is due to the fact that everyone on this board always does it the right way and then reports to the message board every time they see someone do it the wrong way! :posting:

[Bogie Shooter]

Everyone drives everything differently. The number of ongoing threads on this subject is due to the fact that everyone on this board always does it the right way and then reports to the message board every time they see someone do it the wrong way! :posting:

There are many threads on roundabouts. If you go back and look at the posters, most are repeat customers. Espousing the same opinions over and over.
Seldom are there new posters offering any different opinions. So, how does all this posting ever accomplish changing anyones behavior?
Even a newcomer to TV/TOTV must find it amusing/confusing in reading the same differing opinions on "how to" the roundabouts.
BTW, why would anyone continue to suggest that the solution is single lane roundabouts? In their wildest dreams can they envision the county spending that kind of money?
Keep posting...............its amusing.

[CFrance]

Glad you're enjoying it, Bogie!

[Walter123]

There are many threads on roundabouts. If you go back and look at the posters, most are repeat customers. Espousing the same opinions over and over.
Seldom are there new posters offering any different opinions. So, how does all this posting ever accomplish changing anyones behavior?
Even a newcomer to TV/TOTV must find it amusing/confusing in reading the same differing opinions on "how to" the roundabouts.
BTW, why would anyone continue to suggest that the solution is single lane roundabouts? In their wildest dreams can they envision the county spending that kind of money?
Keep posting...............its amusing.

Wow Bogie, That's the most I ever saw you write. I agree with you. It seems everyone on these threads know how to navigate roundabouts. Maybe a campaign outside of TOTV is the answer so everyone else knows too.
BTW, my favorite roundabout is Morse and Stillwater where everyone goes 3/4 around on the outside lane so they can catch the bypass before the bridge. If you do it right you most certainly have to cut someone off to get to the bypass. Idiots.

[outlaw]

First hand where? Maybe at a location with low traffic volumes, single lane approach streets, etc.. Specifics matter. You certainly haven't experienced it in TV.

If you're talking about nothing but some signs and paint, that means your plan is to simply merge existing traffic on Morse and BV into a single lane at or before each circle?! With all due respect, that would be a disaster and...thankfully...will never happen.

I pretty much gave you specifics in my first post. The paint at Sumter Landing seems to work without disaster? My first hand experience was similar conditions to TV, and, yes, the merging lanes were accomplished with just good old paint.

[Average Guy]

Wow Bogie, That's the most I ever saw you write. I agree with you. It seems everyone on these threads know how to navigate roundabouts. Maybe a campaign outside of TOTV is the answer so everyone else knows too.
BTW, my favorite roundabout is Morse and Stillwater where everyone goes 3/4 around on the outside lane so they can catch the bypass before the bridge. If you do it right you most certainly have to cut someone off to get to the bypass. Idiots.

I have also noticed that nearly everyone uses the outside lane when going 3/4 of the way around the roundabout to go from Stillwater to northbound on Morse. What I find amusing about that is that it seems like the drivers feel they must use the bypass on Morse to save some precious time. The time saved though is certainly less than 10 seconds!

[memason]

I have also noticed that nearly everyone uses the outside lane when going 3/4 of the way around the roundabout to go from Stillwater to northbound on Morse. What I find amusing about that is that it seems like the drivers feel they must use the bypass on Morse to save some precious time. The time saved though is certainly less than 10 seconds!

Going through the RAB is normally faster than the bypass at that location...

[Jgg7933]

Even though we all received brochures on how to navigate the roundabouts, there is still much confusion. I spoke with a very nice gentleman at our postal box today who, I observed, proceeded to go 3/4 of the way around a roundabout, however was in the right, outside lane when he entered the gate. According to all the literature, brochures, You Tube videos, he should have been in the left, inside lane.

The posted diagrams and yield signs do not seem to be sufficient for many drivers. Now that the snowbirds are back, the problem seems to be getting worse.

I believe that one solution would be to have worded signs along with the diagrams. One sign should say, "Vehicles in the roundabouts have the Right Of Way". Another sign should say, "Vehicles making a left hand turn (going 3/4 around) MUST be in the left hand lane and vehicles making a right hand turn MUST be in the right hand lane".

I have no idea what it would cost to do this or even who is responsible for doing it. However, I certainly feel that the cost would be worth it if there were fewer accidents.


I must be "very Lucky (or blessed)". We are here over 5 years and have not encountered any serious issues with navigating the roundabouts. I do drive defensively and pay close attention to my surroundings while driving though when approaching these roundabouts! Whenever you have the number of people in a city that use 2 main roads (Morse and Buena Vista) almost daily their will be an issue from time to time regardless of the design!

[Polar Bear]

I pretty much gave you specifics in my first post. The paint at Sumter Landing seems to work without disaster? My first hand experience was similar conditions to TV, and, yes, the merging lanes were accomplished with just good old paint.

Are you referring to the tiny 1-lane stretch on the north part of the circle? That's only there because there is no through traffic east and west, and Lake Sumter Landing has a single west-bound lane. It's in effect a dedicated left turn lane for the northbound traffic on Morse heading into Lake Sumter.

The only 2 lane through movement (Morse) remains 2 lanes through the roundabout. The short painted segment north of the circle is paralleled by the bypass lane...still 2 northbound lanes for Morse through the roundabout.

If we're talking about the feasibility of single lane roundabouts around the entire circle, this is not an example.

[spd2918]

My northern city is preparing to open its first multiple lane roundabout. As a police officer I am not looking forward to all the crash reports that are coming. The intersection will be on a through highway with lots of out of town travelers. Most of these travelers will have no idea what to do.

[spd2918]

I recently visited The Bubble and I did not realize I had to yield to BOTH lanes in the circle. It makes sense now because I know the inside lane car might be exiting to my right.

This is the only circumstance I know of when a turning car must yield to a lane beyond its own intended lane. Thus the confusion.

[Bogie Shooter]

The sign says yield not yield right lane or left lane..........why the confusion?

[spd2918]

The sign says yield not yield right lane or left lane..........why the confusion?

Because no where else in U.S. traffic law are you required to yield to cars that are not in your intended lane.

[Bogie Shooter]

Because no where else in U.S. traffic law are you required to yield to cars that are not in your intended lane.

Are you sure?

[Sandtrap328]

This is a prime example of defensive driving. Yielding to the traffic in the circle will ensure that one of the cars already in the circle will not take a quick wrong turn and run into YOU.

[spd2918]

Are you sure?

Yes, with regard to normal traffic rules (exceptions for funerals, emergency vehicles, etc).

[Polar Bear]

This is a prime example of defensive driving. Yielding to the traffic in the circle will ensure that one of the cars already in the circle will not take a quick wrong turn and run into YOU.

Yep.

[Bogie Shooter]

Because no where else in U.S. traffic law are you required to yield to cars that are not in your intended lane.

Are you sure?

Yes, with regard to normal traffic rules (exceptions for funerals, emergency vehicles, etc).

Do a Google search and you will see examples of yielding to both lanes in multil-lane roundabouts.
Search= "traffic yield sign law to multiple lanes"


Here is one example for Washington state;
At the dashed yield line, look to your left and yield to drivers already in the roundabout. Remember, in a multi-lane roundabout, you must yield to both lanes of traffic

[outlaw]

This is a prime example of defensive driving. Yielding to the traffic in the circle will ensure that one of the cars already in the circle will not take a quick wrong turn and run into YOU.

That's why I drive 10 mph through the RABs.

[spd2918]

Do a Google search and you will see examples of yielding to both lanes in multil-lane roundabouts.
Search= "traffic yield sign law to multiple lanes"


Here is one example for Washington state;
At the dashed yield line, look to your left and yield to drivers already in the roundabout. Remember, in a multi-lane roundabout, you must yield to both lanes of traffic

Yes, I meant at multi-lane roundabouts in general, not just at TV's roundabouts.

[billethkid]

That's why I drive 10 mph through the RABs.

Me too and my head swiveling on the lookout in every direction possible.

In 10 years I have been hit twice in the roundabouts. While doing my 10 mph and side swiped by someone not yielding and into the inside lane where I happened to be.

In each case the other driver admitted fault.....it was very obvious to anybody viewing the aftermath positions. And in bot instances the classic answer....I did not see you!!!!

There are far too many near misses daily in every circle.

The supposed premise of needing two lanes to keep the volume of traffic moving which would look impressive in a presentation. Is overwhelmed by the facts of age of the drivers and their varying abilities behind the wheel. The overwhelming number of newbies to the area plus those who are only for short lengths of time hence a very high number who are not familiar with the rules of roundabouts. Add to them the Mario Andretti types that blindly forge ahead.

Many solutions have been offered...all good ones. None proven to work in TV.

Defensive driving and always assume the car next to you will move into your lane, or will not yield, or most certainly will not use their turn signal or give you a break. By doing so you will only have accomplished reducing the odds.

[James2308]

Most people here in TV don't even look both ways when making turns much less able to read and navigate the roundabouts

[drconrad]

Two lanes entering would have to merge into one, could be a problem.

[Mike W]

So with all the concerns about cars navigating roundabouts, how do those of you that ride motorcycles and bicycles navigate roundabouts? Earlier posts mentioned those famous words that all cyclists have heard one time or other, "I didn't see you". The last time I heard that I was picking myself off the pavement and my Harley was totaled. I don't ever want to do that again. No matter if you're right or wrong, car vs cycle (motor or bi) car ALWAYS wins!

[downeaster]

ROB's are here. They are here to stay. They are not going to be redesigned. There are rules relative to navigating them. There are signs relative to navigating them. There is striping relative to navigating. There have been articles in the local press relative to navigating them. There are brochures, in color, relative to navigating them. There have been hundreds, maybe thousands, of posts here about (got tired of typing relative) them. The POA. The HOA. etc.

Why do I read the posts you ask. Don't know I answer. I guess I get to know the posters a little better.

[Bogie Shooter]

This should be the last word........................

[tomwed]

Many solutions have been offered...all good ones. None proven to work in TV.
[/U][/B]
I have not been here as long as you.
Have they tried other solutions and they didn't work?
What did they try?
What happened?

[Barefoot]

This should be the last word........................

Really, you think Post # 120 is the last word? :evil6: You are optimistic indeed.

[capecoralbill]

Are the gatekeepers volunteers, or paid?

[tomwed]

Are the gatekeepers volunteers, or paid?
paid

[Bonanza]

Are the gatekeepers volunteers, or paid?

paid

Yes, as Tomwed said, the personnel at the gates are paid. They work 4 days on and four days off. They get no paid vacation time and no benefits.

It costs Villages' residents over a million dollars a year, which also includes maintenance, utilities, etc. Exactly how much over a million, I don't know but I think it''s pretty expensive to give us all a false sense of security when the streets are public and anyone can come and go as they please.

[Barefoot]

It costs Villages' residents over a million dollars a year, which also includes maintenance, utilities, etc. Exactly how much over a million, I don't know but I think it''s pretty expensive to give us all a false sense of security when the streets are public and anyone can come and go as they please.

I know this is wandering off the topic of roundabouts, but it's an interesting point, since The Villages really isn't a gated community at all.
The Gates do give some type of psychological security, but is it really worth the price.
Many of us were unaware when we purchased that the gates are there for traffic control.
The streets are owned by the County; they are public property. As Bonanza said, anyone can enter.

[Walter123]

The subject has changed so I guess Bogie was right. He's always right!

Oh yeah, without the gates, golf carts don't stand a chance, especially during snowbird season.

[Laurie2]

Oh yeah, without the gates, golf carts don't stand a chance, especially during snowbird season.

You are right, Walter123. . .

Why did the golf cart cross the road?

To get to the other side.

-- And without the gates, the odds of that happening would be greatly reduced.

Our gates save lives.

[Barefoot]

My husband actually met a woman in a roundabout who was going in the wrong direction.
She shook her fist at him. :shrug: .

[red tail]

I forgot the subject...is it gates or roundabouts

[Bogie Shooter]

dog poop

[graciegirl]

dog poop


You lay down with dogs, you get up with fleas.

[Walter123]

I think happy hour started early for a couple of people today.

[Bogie Shooter]

I think happy hour started early for a couple of people today.

133 no 134 roundabout post will drive anyone to an early happy hour!:beer3:

[maru8]

Yes,yes, one lane would solve all the problems!!!! It even worked in New Jersey. I have read Sumters laws on the roundies and it is do what you want and let the lawyers solve the law suits!!!

[tomwed]

It even worked in New Jersey.
Where in New Jersey? I lived in Hudson County, Essex County, Gloucester County, Burlington County and Cape May County.

[DougB]

I believe making it mandatory those in the right (outside) lane have to take the first right you come to and those in the left (inside) lane can go straight or take any right you come to would eliminate confusion and accidents.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Wow. There has got to be some very rich auto body repair shops in this area due to all of the accidents that happen in TV. I'm beginning to think I just want to drive a golf cart everywhere I go; no, wait, maybe ride a bicycle; no, wait again, maybe walk; heck, I might decide to just be a hermit and stay in the home once I get there. :grumpy:

[Walter123]

Don't fix it if it ain't broken. It's the people that are broken so no matter what is done, there will still be broken people that don't understand, don't care, shouldn't be driving, etc, etc, etc.

[Bogie Shooter]

Wow. There has got to be some very rich auto body repair shops in this area due to all of the accidents that happen in TV. I'm beginning to think I just want to drive a golf cart everywhere I go; no, wait, maybe ride a bicycle; no, wait again, maybe walk; heck, I might decide to just be a hermit and stay in the home once I get there. :grumpy:

What is all? 10 a week, 5 a day?
More than area towns, More than "up north".

[Bogie Shooter]

Don't fix it if it ain't broken. It's the people that are broken so no matter what is done, there will still be broken people that don't understand, don't care, shouldn't be driving, etc, etc, etc.

Now, that says it all.....................

[outlaw]

Me too and my head swiveling on the lookout in every direction possible.

In 10 years I have been hit twice in the roundabouts. While doing my 10 mph and side swiped by someone not yielding and into the inside lane where I happened to be.

In each case the other driver admitted fault.....it was very obvious to anybody viewing the aftermath positions. And in bot instances the classic answer....I did not see you!!!!

There are far too many near misses daily in every circle.

The supposed premise of needing two lanes to keep the volume of traffic moving which would look impressive in a presentation. Is overwhelmed by the facts of age of the drivers and their varying abilities behind the wheel. The overwhelming number of newbies to the area plus those who are only for short lengths of time hence a very high number who are not familiar with the rules of roundabouts. Add to them the Mario Andretti types that blindly forge ahead.

Many solutions have been offered...all good ones. None proven to work in TV.

Defensive driving and always assume the car next to you will move into your lane, or will not yield, or most certainly will not use their turn signal or give you a break. By doing so you will only have accomplished reducing the odds.

Single lane RABs have been tried and proven not to work in TV?

[outlaw]

Don't fix it if it ain't broken. It's the people that are broken so no matter what is done, there will still be broken people that don't understand, don't care, shouldn't be driving, etc, etc, etc.

billythekid had two accidents in RABs in 10 years...it's broke. I haven't had an accident in 50 years. I almost got clobbered in a RAB last week by someone in the inside lane exiting right in front of me. She was making the FIRST right turn....from the inside lane.

[Chi-Town]

I really like the idea of single lane roundabouts here. Sure, there might be a slowdown at times when merging, but the lack of confusion of those entering and exiting a roundabout should keep that to a minimum.

[Stitcher girl]

One lane roundabouts get my vote. Best idea I have heard in this seemingly never ending discussion(been going on for the 7 years I have lived here).

[Polar Bear]

...single lane roundabouts here. Sure, there might be a slowdown at times when merging...

That doesn't even begin to describe the chaos that would result. Traffic volume and road capacity matters...greatly.

[outlaw]

So with all the concerns about cars navigating roundabouts, how do those of you that ride motorcycles and bicycles navigate roundabouts? Earlier posts mentioned those famous words that all cyclists have heard one time or other, "I didn't see you". The last time I heard that I was picking myself off the pavement and my Harley was totaled. I don't ever want to do that again. No matter if you're right or wrong, car vs cycle (motor or bi) car ALWAYS wins!

I speed up so that when I navigate the RABs, my knee just barely touches the roadway in the turn.

[outlaw]

That doesn't even begin to describe the chaos that would result. Traffic volume and road capacity matters...greatly.

And why are you so certain that chaos would result? Europe has had RABs since the automobile was invented. Most of them are one or two lanes merged into a single RAB lane. They seem to do just fine.

[CFrance]

And why are you so certain that chaos would result? Europe has had RABs since the automobile was invented. Most of them are one or two lanes merged into a single RAB lane. They seem to do just fine.
I think there would be less confusion because there's only one choice. Get in one lane, get into the RAB in that lane, exit the RAB from that lane.

[dbussone]

I think there would be less confusion because there's only one choice. Get in one lane, get into the RAB in that lane, exit the RAB from that lane.

Ooo. I'm not sure that would work well, CF.

[Barefoot]

It's the people that are broken so no matter what is done, there will still be broken people that don't understand, don't care, shouldn't be driving, etc, etc, etc.
Exactly. :highfive:

[Polar Bear]

A couple more comments, then I'll bow out of this thread...

Examples of working single lane roundabouts are useless unless specifics are compared...traffic volumes, geometrics, nature of approaching roads, design speeds, street network in the vicinity of the roundabout(s), and much more.

In TV, I believe Buena Vista is 4-lane for its entire length. Morse is 4-lane for almost it's entire length, with only a short section in the older areas being 2-lane. Making the roundabouts 1-lane would reduce the capacity of Buena Vista and Morse to that of a 2-lane road throughout TV, even a bit less because of reduced speed in the roundabouts and recurring, frequent merge areas that would be required.

Picture peak season traffic in The Villages. Now picture that peak season with all roads in TV (which pass through a roundabout) being in effect only 2-lanes, only worse because of constant merging. That increased congestion is the 'chaos' I referred to. Sorry if I overdramatized a bit. [emoji4]

[Bonanza]

The fact of the matter is that nothing moves more smoothly than Morse north of 466. Granted, it is only one lane in each direction.
It is noteworthy that each merging village coming on to Morse has a stop sign before you can enter.
Even more noteworthy than that, you hardly hear of an accident because of this arrangement.

[slipcovers]

POLAR BEAR is the only person qualified on this forum, in regards to roundabouts. Just a few weeks ago, a golf cart turned left into oncoming traffic, and was killed.

[dbussone]

POLAR BEAR is the only person qualified on this forum, in regards to roundabouts. Just a few weeks ago, a golf cart turned left into oncoming traffic, and was killed.

Really? I grew up driving on roundabouts in the Boston area (and other cities) since I was 16. Let's see that gives me 50 years experience on them. And I've not had an accident on one. Unlike some of the fruit loops driving on them here. No offense intended Polar.

[memason]

Ironically, this thread is a little like the round-a-bouts....around and around and going nowhere and nothing changes.

Bottomeline: The RAB's are here to stay and in their current 2 lane configurations. These are the safest types of intersections possible! If you don't believe that, go do a little research into traffic safety.

There would be far more accidents (serious accidents), should the RAB's be converted to 4 way stops or traffic lights.

[dbussone]

Ironically, this thread is a little like the round-a-bouts....around and around and going nowhere and nothing changes.

Bottomeline: The RAB's are here to stay and in their current 2 lane configurations. These are the safest types of intersections possible! If you don't believe that, go do a little research into traffic safety.

There would be far more accidents (serious accidents), should the RAB's be converted to 4 way stops or traffic lights.

And the traffic would likely slow considerably. Good post!

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

A couple more comments, then I'll bow out of this thread...

Examples of working single lane roundabouts are useless unless specifics are compared...traffic volumes, geometrics, nature of approaching roads, design speeds, street network in the vicinity of the roundabout(s), and much more.

In TV, I believe Buena Vista is 4-lane for its entire length. Morse is 4-lane for almost it's entire length, with only a short section in the older areas being 2-lane. Making the roundabouts 1-lane would reduce the capacity of Buena Vista and Morse to that of a 2-lane road throughout TV, even a bit less because of reduced speed in the roundabouts and recurring, frequent merge areas that would be required.

Picture peak season traffic in The Villages. Now picture that peak season with all roads in TV (which pass through a roundabout) being in effect only 2-lanes, only worse because of constant merging. That increased congestion is the 'chaos' I referred to. Sorry if I overdramatized a bit. [emoji4]

I don't think that you're over dramatizing at all. The idea of one lane round abouts on four lane roads is absurd.

The round abouts work well and are simple to navigate.

If you get the online news that we are not allowed to mention, every so often you'll see reports of car accidents. Very few, none that I can recall, in fact, of these accidents have happened at round abouts. Most seem to be at the intersections of Morse and 466, 466a and Buena Vista and 466 and 466A.

[slipcovers]

Really? I grew up driving on roundabouts in the Boston area (and other cities) since I was 16. Let's see that gives me 50 years experience on them. And I've not had an accident on one. Unlike some of the fruit loops driving on them here. No offense intended Polar.

I too am from Boston, and drive rotary everyday. However, Polar Bear has an engineering degree in traffic management, I believe, so I will trust his opinion. POLAR, am I correct?

[graciegirl]

The fact of the matter is that nothing moves more smoothly than Morse north of 466. Granted, it is only one lane in each direction.
It is noteworthy that each merging village coming on to Morse has a stop sign before you can enter.
Even more noteworthy than that, you hardly hear of an accident because of this arrangement.


Someone was killed there just two weeks ago. In a golf cart. They turned left in front of an oncoming car.

I think the fact that few serious accidents occur in roundabouts (In fact I can't remember any serious accidents in roundabouts in eight years) probably because people are very, VERY, wary. AND wary is better than cocky.

[Mikeod]

The fact of the matter is that nothing moves more smoothly than Morse north of 466. Granted, it is only one lane in each direction.
It is noteworthy that each merging village coming on to Morse has a stop sign before you can enter.
Even more noteworthy than that, you hardly hear of an accident because of this arrangement.
You're kidding, right? Yes, the traffic on Morse moves smoothly. But the people waiting at those stop signs to enter Morse below Rio Grande have an awful time trying to get out. At this time of year, Morse is a constant stream of traffic. I've frequently seen solid lines of traffic from the San Marino light south way past the postal station. I've seen backups from the gate at 466 filling both lanes almost back to 466 while the two lanes go through the gate and merge into one lane. And similar lines of cars going south from Rio Grande.

Sure the traffic on Morse flows well, but it's hell for those trying to get onto it from their neighborhoods.

[Polar Bear]

I too am from Boston, and drive rotary everyday. However, Polar Bear has an engineering degree in traffic management, I believe, so I will trust his opinion. POLAR, am I correct?

Yeah. I do, slipcovers. And thanks for your vote of confidence. [emoji4]

But I do understand that everybody has their own experience and opinions regarding roundabouts. To many they are new and unusual, take some getting-used-to, and tend to elicit strong emotions.

Now I'm bow out again...and I really mean it this time[emoji844][emoji6]

[Bogie Shooter]

The fact of the matter is that nothing moves more smoothly than Morse north of 466. Granted, it is only one lane in each direction.
It is noteworthy that each merging village coming on to Morse has a stop sign before you can enter.
Even more noteworthy than that, you hardly hear of an accident because of this arrangement.

Wasn't there a death on Morse just recently?

[Bonanza]

Wasn't there a death on Morse just recently?

Yes. A golf cart turned directly into a car.
The man probably shouldn't have been driving anything.
I believe he was in his 80s.
:eek:

[Bonanza]

The subject has changed so I guess Bogie was right. He's always right!

Oh yeah, without the gates, golf carts don't stand a chance, especially during snowbird season.

Walter -- let's not lose sight of the fact that cars have the right of way.

[Bonanza]

[QUOTE=Laurie2;1006862]You are right, Walter123. . .
Why did the golf cart cross the road?
To get to the other side.
And without the gates, the odds of that happening would be greatly reduced.
Our gates save lives.[QUOTE]

Our gates don't save lives.
You go through a gate and immediately enter a circle --
a circle that causes many or almost many accidents.

[Bonanza]

You lay down with dogs, you get up with fleas.

Does that have something to do with this thread???

[Bonanza]

Don't fix it if it ain't broken. It's the people that are broken so no matter what is done, there will still be broken people that don't understand, don't care, shouldn't be driving, etc, etc, etc.

You are correct.
It IS the people.
That is exactly why the circles don't work.
Bulldoze 'em!

[Bonanza]

You're kidding, right? Yes, the traffic on Morse moves smoothly. But the people waiting at those stop signs to enter Morse below Rio Grande have an awful time trying to get out. At this time of year, Morse is a constant stream of traffic. I've frequently seen solid lines of traffic from the San Marino light south way past the postal station. I've seen backups from the gate at 466 filling both lanes almost back to 466 while the two lanes go through the gate and merge into one lane. And similar lines of cars going south from Rio Grande.

Sure the traffic on Morse flows well, but it's hell for those trying to get onto it from their neighborhoods.


Uhhh . . . no, I'm not kidding.

Those who are waiting at the stop signs aren't waiting that long. When the light changes at Rio Grande is what permits them to get out because that light is what gives them the time for them to move. I've never seen many cars backed up at a stop sign waiting to enter Morse. A few cars, yes. But many cars, no. Very often, there is a lull in the flow of traffic anyway.

Once the light changes, everyone gets through the light. It isn't any different from any other traffic light, even on 441 which is what I call traffic.

The backups at the light at 466 going south are the same thing. When the light changes, all the traffic gets through. No big deal; that's what traffic lights are for.

[tomjbud]

A few days ago, I witnessed a car going the wrong direction through a traffic circle! Luckily, everyone stopped and waited for the person to go through.:shrug:

[graciegirl]

First it makes me sad when people move here and are not happy, Then it makes me mad when they want to change things.

Traffic, and waiting at restaurants and people clogging the grocery and even the church aisles is always greater or worse during the high season of January, February and March.

The circles are simple. Wait until there is no one in the circle approaching you. Enter in the right lane if you are turning right or going straight. Enter in the left lane if you are turning left. When exiting from the left lane be sure no one is behind you in the right lane. Don't drive NEXT to anyone in a circle. Allow them to get ahead of you, or behind you and watch what they are doing.

Practice in the middle of the night when no one is there.

Remember to drive as if everyone else is a crazy person......because many of them are. Don't honk your horn. PERIOD. It shows you aren't from Ohio.

[LittleDog]

The roundabout that I have the most potential accidents is the one where Stillwater Trail meets Morse Blvd. One time as I was going around the circle a car shot out of the right hand side and proceeded to cut me off. He was heading to the Morse bridge. Because he cut me off I had to go around the circle again just to head north on Morse. Today I was heading north and was signaling for a right turn to head to the bridge. All of a sudden I heard a blast of a car right behind me that I guess cut him off. I don't know where he came from as he wasn't behind me in the circle. He must have entered the circle right behind me and certainly didn't yield for those in the circle. My wife said she also didn't see him. These people coming thru that gate to enter Morse must not realize there is a traffic circle there. :confused:

John

[Walter123]

First it makes me sad when people move here and are not happy, Then it makes me mad when they want to change things.

Traffic, and waiting at restaurants and people clogging the grocery and even the church aisles is always greater or worse during the high season of January, February and March.

The circles are simple. Wait until there is no one in the circle approaching you. Enter in the right lane if you are turning right or going straight. Enter in the left lane if you are turning left. When exiting from the left lane be sure no one is behind you in the right lane. Don't drive NEXT to anyone in a circle. Allow them to get ahead of you, or behind you and watch what they are doing.

Practice in the middle of the night when no one is there.

Remember to drive as if everyone else is a crazy person......because many of them are. Don't honk your horn. PERIOD. It shows you aren't from Ohio.

Correction.....Enter in the left lane (inside lane) if you are going straight or left. :shrug:

[graciegirl]

Correction.....Enter in the left lane (inside lane) if you are going straight or left. :shrug:


Is he right???? Somebody show the graphic.

[dbussone]

Is he right???? Somebody show the graphic.

Walter is correct!

[graciegirl]

Walter is correct!


Here is shows we both are correct...;Navigating The Villages Roundabouts (http://www.thevillagesfloridabook.com/navigating-villages-roundabouts/)

From the link above;

"If you intend to travel through the roundabout and continue straight ahead, it can be appropriate to use either lane to enter and travel through the roundabout. The only concern in this case is that you should make sure you stay in the same lane throughout and also be sure to use your turn signal when you are ready to exit. If you are exiting from the inside lane, be careful that there isn’t a vehicle in the outside lane that intends to keep circling. Not everyone is aware of this guideline, so be careful in these situations. "

[Walter123]

Here is shows we both are correct...;Navigating The Villages Roundabouts (http://www.thevillagesfloridabook.com/navigating-villages-roundabouts/)

From the link above;

"If you intend to travel through the roundabout and continue straight ahead, it can be appropriate to use either lane to enter and travel through the roundabout. The only concern in this case is that you should make sure you stay in the same lane throughout and also be sure to use your turn signal when you are ready to exit. If you are exiting from the inside lane, be careful that there isn’t a vehicle in the outside lane that intends to keep circling. Not everyone is aware of this guideline, so be careful in these situations. "

We are not both correct. You said the left lane is for turning left when it is really for going straight OR turning left. No wonder people get confused.

just saying....We are all wrong sometimes, even you.

[kittygilchrist]

EWhen I first moved here I studied this issue to the depth of talking to local law officers, studied RB design research, got county stats on RB accidents, contrasting the best practice brochure against laws for federal highway markings....and....

1. best practices and what we all tell each other to do in RBs does not match federal highway markings, so newbies do not know we made our own rules

2. Not all RBs are designed with proper impedance of speed by the angle of approach into the circle. Lanes should come in rather head on to the circle for that purpose.

3. Research indicates we have likely saved lives and accidents and experienced accelerated ease of traffic because of RBs.

4. Personally, I approach the thing as if it is normal highway where my job is to yield to what is oncoming, change lanes when I am not going to impede someone, and wait for anybody clueless, without blowing my horn (@GG).

5. Finally, I was almost hit recently and encourage all to be careful in new construction areas. At Morse and Pinellas, of all places, HQ for Public Safety, new traffic is buzzing all 4, all four, directions now, and some people are not used to watching for it. Additionally, traffic coming north on morse is coming Way too fast..

6. Summary: never assume that having the right of way means you get to go first.

[Mikeod]

Uhhh . . . no, I'm not kidding.

Those who are waiting at the stop signs aren't waiting that long. When the light changes at Rio Grande is what permits them to get out because that light is what gives them the time for them to move. I've never seen many cars backed up at a stop sign waiting to enter Morse. A few cars, yes. But many cars, no. Very often, there is a lull in the flow of traffic anyway.

Once the light changes, everyone gets through the light. It isn't any different from any other traffic light, even on 441 which is what I call traffic.

The backups at the light at 466 going south are the same thing. When the light changes, all the traffic gets through. No big deal; that's what traffic lights are for.

Obviously you missed my point entirely. I agree that traffic flows well on Morse. Yes, all the traffic gets through the lights at Rio Grande and 466. Both those facts result in a steady stream of traffic flowing north and south. It's easy to dismiss the difficulty residents have trying to get onto Morse from those side streets when your interest is how smoothly traffic flows on Morse. If it's so easy to do, why did they have to build a cart bridge so people can get to the Mail station near Carrera Dr.? Because people in that neighborhood couldn't get onto northbound Morse to get their mail during this season.


The point is that the roundabouts you despise perform a valuable function in letting vehicles enter the main roads far more easily than the stop signs you prefer.

[Walter123]

When I first moved here I studied this issue to the depth of talking to local law officers, studied RB design research, got county stats on RB accidents, contrasting the best practice brochure against laws for federal highway markings....and....

1. best practices and what we all tell each other to do in RBs does not match federal highway markings, so newbies do not know we made our own rules

2. Not all RBs are designed with proper impedance of speed by the angle of approach into the circle. Lanes should come in rather head on to the circle for that purpose.

3. Research indicates we have likely saved lives and accidents and experienced accelerated ease of traffic because of RBs.

4. Personally, I approach the thing as if it is normal highway where my job is to yield to what is oncoming, change lanes when I am not going to impede someone, and wait for anybody clueless, without blowing my horn (@GG).

5. Finally, I was almost hit recently and encourage all to be careful in new construction areas. At Morse and Pinellas, of all places, HQ for Public Safety, new traffic is buzzing all 4, all four, directions now, and some people are not used to watching for it. Additionally, somebody forgot to put two lanes in the east side of the RB. Sooooo, we have traffic from three directions and basically crisscrossing ingress and egress across only one lane.

6. Summary: never assume that having the right of way means you get to go first.

Not sure I agree with not using your horn. If it looks like someone is going to hit me I will take evasive action and blow my horn to alert the other driver. My only concern is that if that person is from Ohio they might not know what the sound is and be startled because they don't honk in Ohio.

[Mikeod]

[QUOTE=Laurie2;1006862]You are right, Walter123. . .
Why did the golf cart cross the road?
To get to the other side.
And without the gates, the odds of that happening would be greatly reduced.
Our gates save lives.[QUOTE]

Our gates don't save lives.
You go through a gate and immediately enter a circle --
a circle that causes many or almost many accidents.

I assume you have hard statistics on the "many accidents" in the "circles" that contradicts that of professional traffic engineers. I would like that link, please.

[Bogie Shooter]

Not sure I agree with not using your horn. If it looks like someone is going to hit me I will take evasive action and blow my horn to alert the other driver. My only concern is that if that person is from Ohio they might not know what the sound is and be startled because they don't honk in Ohio.

Tee Hee, Gracie are you listening? :jester:

[CFrance]

First it makes me sad when people move here and are not happy, Then it makes me mad when they want to change things.

Traffic, and waiting at restaurants and people clogging the grocery and even the church aisles is always greater or worse during the high season of January, February and March.

The circles are simple. Wait until there is no one in the circle approaching you. Enter in the right lane if you are turning right or going straight. Enter in the left lane if you are turning left. When exiting from the left lane be sure no one is behind you in the right lane. Don't drive NEXT to anyone in a circle. Allow them to get ahead of you, or behind you and watch what they are doing.

Practice in the middle of the night when no one is there.

Remember to drive as if everyone else is a crazy person......because many of them are. Don't honk your horn. PERIOD. It shows you aren't from Ohio.
So are you supposed to come to a complete stop when some bozo enters behind you and goes 3/4 of the way around like you are but in the right (wrong) lane? Subjecting yourself to danger/anger from anyone behind you? Yes, you must.

The Villages are great, but not perfect, and these two-lane roundabouts are one of its imperfections.:confused:

[kittygilchrist]

So are you supposed to come to a complete stop when some bozo enters behind you and goes 3/4 of the way around like you are but in the right (wrong) lane? Subjecting yourself to danger/anger from anyone behind you? Yes, you must.

The Villages are great, but not perfect, and these two-lane roundabouts are one of its imperfections.:confused:

Good video...

Yield to all lanes....

http://mntransportationresearch.org/2014/01/29/how-to-navigate-a-multi-lane-roundabout/

[tomwed]

Good video...

Yield to all lanes....

Video: How to Navigate a Multi-Lane Roundabout | Crossroads (http://mntransportationresearch.org/2014/01/29/how-to-navigate-a-multi-lane-roundabout/)

Is this what they said? I watched it.

Stop for vehicles in the round about. [I think they said all vehicles. That means even the ones that are not near you.]
Don't stop in the middle of the round about except for pedestrians and bikes. [but they have cross walks so this does not apply down here]
Don't change lanes. [We have dashed not solid lines between the lanes.]

[Walter123]

Tee Hee, Gracie are you listening? :jester:

No comments from the peanut gallery please.

[graciegirl]

So are you supposed to come to a complete stop when some bozo enters behind you and goes 3/4 of the way around like you are but in the right (wrong) lane? Subjecting yourself to danger/anger from anyone behind you? Yes, you must.

The Villages are great, but not perfect, and these two-lane roundabouts are one of its imperfections.:confused:


Video: How to Navigate a Multi-Lane Roundabout | Crossroads (http://mntransportationresearch.org/2014/01/29/how-to-navigate-a-multi-lane-roundabout/)

[CFrance]

Video: How to Navigate a Multi-Lane Roundabout | Crossroads (http://mntransportationresearch.org/2014/01/29/how-to-navigate-a-multi-lane-roundabout/)
Oh, I've seen all the videos and brochures and read the signs. I know all the rules and advice about being aware of anyone around you 360 degrees. Still doesn't solve the problem of you being in the correct inside lane to go 3/4 the way around when some idiot sneaking in behind you and doing the same thing in the outside lane. I don't have eyes in the back of my head, and sooner or later an accident will occur. I go out of my way to get to my destination without using RABs, esp. In high traffic season.

Two lane RABs in an aging community where many have no prior experience with RABs where they came from... Bad idea.

[Miles42]

Bad drivers are bad drivers period. Not isolated to snowbirds, northerners, southerners etc. folks that drive with their head up their butt have no idea where they are from or where they are going.

[JoMar]

Will this thread never end......:bowdown:

[OpusX1]

I know some people don't like the roundabouts but the powers that be, the developer, the traffic consultants, the traffic engineers, the county planners and finally the county engineers office must like them because they keep building them. We have been here six years and I think 8 or 10 new roundabouts have been built. They are not going to change the design because it works.

[CFrance]

Or else they are not going to change the design because they are blind to reality.

[Bonanza]

I know some people don't like the roundabouts but the powers that be, the developer, the traffic consultants, the traffic engineers, the county planners and finally the county engineers office must like them because they keep building them. We have been here six years and I think 8 or 10 new roundabouts have been built. They are not going to change the design because it works.

Or else they are not going to change the design because they are blind to reality.

It's obvious to me that the circles DON'T work.
Why else would there be five (5) pages of comments already, and it appears that the thread isn't even finished!
So I ask you . . .who's stupid???

[OpusX1]

Well I don't think it's the traffic engineers, traffic consultants, the county engineers or the county planners.
I never said anyone was stupid, I just pointed out that people with advanced degrees in traffic engineering designed the roundabouts.

[cquick]

I like them! I wouldn't want a 4 way stop at every corner!

[Bogie Shooter]

Will this thread never end......:bowdown:

Well no, there are only 190 posts.............

[tomwed]

And a one, and a two

This is the thread that never ends
Yes it goes on and on my friend
Some people started reading it
Not knowing what it was
But people kept adding more just because

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

It's obvious to me that the circles DON'T work.
Why else would there be five (5) pages of comments already, and it appears that the thread isn't even finished!
So I ask you . . .who's stupid???

It's b=obvious to me after driving here for three years and observing that the round abouts do work.

The reason that we have five pages of comments is that a very few people on this forum don't agree. Don't forget, about half of these post are people saying that the circles work. And you also should realize that the people who post on this site are a very small percentage of the people that live here and only a small percentage of them are complaining about round abouts.

I haven't read every post, but I haven't heard anyone call anyone stupid. So I don't think that we should start now.

As I said, I can't recall any accidents at any of the round abouts. I'm sure there must have been some as there are accidents on all types of roads, but I haven't read or heard about one at a circle.

[graciegirl]

It's obvious to me that the circles DON'T work.
Why else would there be five (5) pages of comments already, and it appears that the thread isn't even finished!
So I ask you . . .who's stupid???


Why is it obvious to you that the circles don't work? I read back page after page after page in search on all things pertaining to roundabouts, going back six years and I can find only two mentions of an accident in a roundabout. One was a huge moving truck that caused an obstruction. The other was a drunken truck driver who plowed into the middle down by the dog park where there is a building in the center.

Maybe I don't know what I am talking about and someone can remind me of accidents. And of course because of open discussion they will.

[Cisco Kid]

I have navigated them several dozen time now, and have not ran over anyone.
It is fair to say I suffer from low wattage .

[CFrance]

I have navigated them several dozen time now, and have not ran over anyone.
It is fair to say I suffer from low wattage .
I knew I could trust you! :eclipsee_gold_cup::eclipsee_gold_cup:
Tell Debbie.

[Walter123]

It's obvious to me that the circles DON'T work.
Why else would there be five (5) pages of comments already, and it appears that the thread isn't even finished!
So I ask you . . .who's stupid???

As I said before, the RAB's work just fine, this thread demonstrates that it's the people that don't know the very simple navigation rules.

BTW, are there and circles on the Ponderosa? :22yikes:

[tomwed]

As I said before, the RAB's work just fine, this thread demonstrates that it's the people that don't know the very simple navigation rules.

BTW, are there and circles on the Ponderosa? :22yikes:
Can't argue with that. If only the people didn't use the circles they would be safe for the rest of us.

[Walter123]

Can't argue with that. If only the people didn't use the circles they would be safe for the rest of us.

Oh Tom, you're so silly! I liked your little poem/song. Should I sing it to a particular tune when I traverse the RAB's? I'm thinking of a song by Yes.

I'm in a roundabout
And I can't get out
I'm in the wrong lane
What a friggen pain

[tomwed]

Oh Tom, you're so silly! I liked your little poem/song. Should I sing it to a particular tune when I traverse the RAB's? I'm thinking of a song by Yes.

I'm in a roundabout
And I can't get out
I'm in the wrong lane
What a friggen pain



call it morning madness in and out the alleys
in and around the bout
drivers cut in and out
watching for others who just stand there

call it morning madness in and out the alleys

[i'd look on my album cover for the lyrics but I wore the cover out in the 70's]

[Walter123]

call it morning madness in and out the alleys
in and around the bout
drivers cut in and out
watching for others who just stand there

call it morning madness in and out the alleys

[i'd look on my album cover for the lyrics but I wore the cover out in the 70's]

Ok, that's it........the mods need to close this thread! LOL..........

[Bogie Shooter]

It's obvious to me that the circles DON'T work.
Why else would there be five (5) pages of comments already, and it appears that the thread isn't even finished!
So I ask you . . .who's stupid???

Could it be the one lane roundabout suggestion?:clap2:

[dbussone]

Oh. Oh. I wonder which group I fall into. (Maybe "fall" isn't a good choice of words.)