More on Roundabouts

[Golf-Tinker]

http://www.economist.com/node/21538779?fsrc=scn%2Ftw%2Fte%2Far%2Fwhatgoesaround

The link takes you to yet another "roundabout" tale, a relaxing read.

[l2ridehd]

Just returned from Sidonia AZ and they have gone to all roundabouts. Traffic moves significantly better then when they had traffic lights. They reduce accidents, save fuel, move traffic better, and are less maintenance then traffic lights. Should be required for all new construction. Everyone should be happy we have them.

[angiefox10]

Just returned from Sidonia AZ and they have gone to all roundabouts. Traffic moves significantly better then when they had traffic lights. They reduce accidents, save fuel, move traffic better, and are less maintenance then traffic lights. Should be required for all new construction. Everyone should be happy we have them.

I understand what you are saying... But I still went to U Tube to learn how to drive in them. When I was down last week my sales rep almost got creamed in one as someone didn't know how to drive it. There is a trick to them.

[angiefox10]

This is an example of what I'm talking about!!!

http://youtu.be/Jesf4xFOg1Q

[angiefox10]

http://youtu.be/xuxKtxzq2Cs

[Carla B]

Last week a woman in the traffic circle traveling ahead of us stopped to wave a vehicle in to the circle. I hope she reads the roundabout brochure soon.:sigh:

[graciegirl]

Last week a woman in the traffic circle traveling ahead of us stopped to wave a vehicle in to the circle. I hope she reads the roundabout brochure soon.:sigh:

omg

[Virtual Geezer]

The one thing that I notice in the OP's link is the lack of anything blocking the drivers vision around the roundabout. I know the landscaping is nice but a better view of what is coming around would be nice.

VG

[Bogie Shooter]

The one thing that I notice in the OP's link is the lack of anything blocking the drivers vision around the roundabout. I know the landscaping is nice but a better view of what is coming around would be nice.

VG

Just slow down!

[memason]

Ahhhhh.... I love the roundabouts. This time of year, driving through TV is always good for a chuckle or two at the roundabouts. There are so few in the US, most drivers just have no clue how to properly navigate...

[Virtual Geezer]

Just slow down!

No problem there, I just like to see what is coming at me. My approach to roundabouts is to drive them properly and ALWAYS know where the other driver is at and watch for them to make a mistake. Up north where I grew up I lived a few miles from a roundabout that has 8 roads leading into it. Going through there at rush hour you learned real quick to always look out for the other guy as they will be the one to do something stupid.

And a side note, I never have had a moving traffic ticket in my life and not planning to start now.

VG

[GatorFan]

Mayhem
Roundabouts. When in doubt, just go straight.

[l2ridehd]

I really fail to understand how anyone can claim they don't know how to use a roundabout. It is exactly the same as a traffic light. If you want to turn right at a light, you use the right hand lane. If you want to turn left at a light you use the left hand lane. If you want to go straight through you use either lane. And you always yield to someone already in the intersection. Roundabouts work exactly the same way. Those that can't follow those simple rules are probably a problem any where they drive.

[memason]

I really fail to understand how anyone can claim they don't know how to use a roundabout. It is exactly the same as a traffic light. If you want to turn right at a light, you use the right hand lane. If you want to turn left at a light you use the left hand lane. If you want to go straight through you use either lane. And you always yield to someone already in the intersection. Roundabouts work exactly the same way. Those that can't follow those simple rules are probably a problem any where they drive.

Exactly! Let's be honest here....knowing HOW to drive is not a requirement to get a drivers license anymore... The folks that can't figure out a roundabout are also the same people running stop signs, hanging over in the cart lane, turning right on a red light without stopping, cruising [sometimes below the speed limit] in the left lane...you name it.

Just saying.....

[Mudder]

Driving in Rotaries in Boston is really exciting, especially when it is dark, snowing and wind blowing at rush hour !! The rotaries in TV are a piece of cake.....but because there are so many here who have not had prior experience, watch out for yourself, but don't ever stop in the rotary!

[Russ_Boston]

I really fail to understand how anyone can claim they don't know how to use a roundabout. It is exactly the same as a traffic light. If you want to turn right at a light, you use the right hand lane. If you want to turn left at a light you use the left hand lane. If you want to go straight through you use either lane. And you always yield to someone already in the intersection. Roundabouts work exactly the same way. Those that can't follow those simple rules are probably a problem any where they drive.

Don't spoil the fun by making it simple now. People on this site like to think it's more rocket science than it is:)

[skyguy79]

Don't spoil the fun by making it simple now. People on this site like to think it's more rocket science than it is:)What? You mean I bought that STK Rocket Science Diploma from QVC for nothing?

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQizvHiafnraoCgGMTFI6XPg5NbYjr2u MFY_Z7Z1ik6w7VePxMYcA

[2BNTV]

What? You mean I bought that STK Rocket Science Diploma from QVC for nothing?

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQizvHiafnraoCgGMTFI6XPg5NbYjr2u MFY_Z7Z1ik6w7VePxMYcA

Dude, that's funny stuff. :a20:

[eweissenbach]

What? You mean I bought that STK Rocket Science Diploma from QVC for nothing?

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQizvHiafnraoCgGMTFI6XPg5NbYjr2u MFY_Z7Z1ik6w7VePxMYcA

Okay, just how long have you had that one in your back pocket waiting to use it??? :a20:

[angiefox10]

Okay, just how long have you had that one in your back pocket waiting to use it??? :a20:

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

No kidding.. Skyguy cracks me up with these!!!

[angiefox10]

It seems easy if you are used to them, but I wouldn't think to exit a roundabout from an inside lane. That's where the rep almost got creamed. The guy (it's always a guy if the driver is bad... right?) in the outside lane wasn't going to exit and she exited from the inside lane.

Now.. I get it, but I would have thought you would have to be in an outside lane to exit.

Get it? :loco:

Now... I think I will go back to bed as I have a headache!

[Posh 08]

Exactly! Let's be honest here....knowing HOW to drive is not a requirement to get a drivers license anymore... The folks that can't figure out a roundabout are also the same people running stop signs, hanging over in the cart lane, turning right on a red light without stopping, cruising [sometimes below the speed limit] in the left lane...you name it.

Just saying.....

Well now, I didn't run stop signs or hang in the cart lane but I sure had a hard time in the roundabouts on our short visit to TV. This Virginian hasn't seen the likes of them so maybe a little understanding for some of your visitors would boost the "Friendliest Home Town" thingy. Just saying.......:wave:

[logdog]

What? You mean I bought that STK Rocket Science Diploma from QVC for nothing?

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQizvHiafnraoCgGMTFI6XPg5NbYjr2u MFY_Z7Z1ik6w7VePxMYcA

If you bought it for nothing then you got your money's worth. Quit complaining...

[Bogie Shooter]

Well now, I didn't run stop signs or hang in the cart lane but I sure had a hard time in the roundabouts on our short visit to TV. This Virginian hasn't seen the likes of them so maybe a little understanding for some of your visitors would boost the "Friendliest Home Town" thingy. Just saying.......:wave:

Not sure what you want us to do for you visitors. If you are here and have a computer, the Community Development site has a brochure that you can read and learn how to drive in a round-a-bout.
Here it is......
http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path='/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure - FINAL070908.pdf'&ql=standard

[Posh 08]

Not sure what you want us to do for you visitors. If you are here and have a computer, the Community Development site has a brochure that you can read and learn how to drive in a round-a-bout.
Here it is......
http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path='/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure - FINAL070908.pdf'&ql=standard

You missed my point. Thought a little understanding for visitors instead of criticism by the other poster.

[quirky3]

You missed my point. Thought a little understanding for visitors instead of criticism by the other poster.

I know what you mean! I experienced TV for the first time past weekend, and even after reading all the "roundabout" stories, the initial visual effect of seeing all the cars and golf carts zipping around is kind of overwhelming and distracting. Did my best to stay focused, don't go too fast or too slow, but was hoping for patience and kindness from other drivers.

[Bogie Shooter]

You missed my point. Thought a little understanding for visitors instead of criticism by the other poster.

But, MeMason was right.

[Posh 08]

But, MeMason was right.

How so? My difficulty with roundabout made me run stop signs? I don't get the broad brush branding.

[memason]

You missed my point. Thought a little understanding for visitors instead of criticism by the other poster.

Sorry....not sure why you took my post so personal . . . It was not directed at anyone specific.

[skyguy79]

If you bought it for nothing then you got your money's worth. Quit complaining...

http://images.faceparty.com/pi/3527/xinxbetweenxdreamsx_35803937.jpg (http://www.faceparty.com/gallery/galleries.aspx?pid=6828805)
Do I really have to?

[jimmemac]

http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path='/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure

doesn't work-it is a shame as a newbie I found the roundabouts with 2 lanes to be new and difficult-very uncomfortable when driving a rental car one is not used to.

[angiefox10]

http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path='/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure (http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure)

doesn't work-it is a shame as a newbie I found the roundabouts with 2 lanes to be new and difficult-very uncomfortable when driving a rental car one is not used to.


The link didn't work.

Even if 75% of the people get it... If 25% don't... they will surly hit the 75%.

It was the two lanes the confused me. You get off the roundabout from the inside lane if you are going past an exit. Who would know that?

[Longrider49]

Been here a couple of weeks. Two close calls. One when the lane merged into one and the car in the ourside lane went across my path to keep going left from the outside lane and another time (today) when a truck exited from the inside lane infront of me when I was going around to the next exit. The CDD brochure advises the turns that can be made from which lane and the use of a right turn signal when exiting. Haven't seen much use of turn signals in the roundabouts. A little caution and courtesy would go a long way and one of my own peeves: I don't thing k the roundabouts are the best place to pass IMHO.

[angiefox10]

Been here a couple of weeks. Two close calls. One when the lane merged into one and the car in the ourside lane went across my path to keep going left from the outside lane and another time (today) when a truck exited from the inside lane infront of me when I was going around to the next exit. The CDD brochure advises the turns that can be made from which lane and the use of a right turn signal when exiting. Haven't seen much use of turn signals in the roundabouts. A little caution and courtesy would go a long way and one of my own peeves: I don't thing k the roundabouts are the best place to pass IMHO.

And thus where it gets confusing. In a roundabout, if you are not making a right hand turn, you should go to the inside lane and exit from there. If you are in the right hand lane... You must get off at the next exit.

http://youtu.be/qVh04m6xHxw

[ilovetv]

I really fail to understand how anyone can claim they don't know how to use a roundabout. It is exactly the same as a traffic light. If you want to turn right at a light, you use the right hand lane. If you want to turn left at a light you use the left hand lane. If you want to go straight through you use either lane. And you always yield to someone already in the intersection. Roundabouts work exactly the same way. Those that can't follow those simple rules are probably a problem any where they drive.

You're right, but some will just never get it. Twice this past week, I was almost creamed by 2 drivers( in different instances) and it would have been horrendous if I had not been watching them very closely. In both cases:

I was going north on Buena Vista, north of Rainey Trail. As I approached the circle at Winifred entrance, I was going to keep heading straight on BV and so I entered the circle in the left (inner) lane. The driver next to me on the right, also heading north on BV, entered the circle beside me on my right, sped up rounding the curve, and as I started to exit at 180 degrees with my signal on, the driver beside me shot leftward in front of me to turn left FROM THE RIGHT (outer) lane. It was heart stopping and happened twice in a week. Thank God I knew to be on the lookout for such dangers!

Why can't people get it that you don't turn left from the right lane? Especially when the big arrows on the pavement in the lanes clearly indicate in advance which ones are used for a right or left turn.....

[Mikeod]

It's really not difficult if you think of the roundabout like a regular intersection. You wouldn't make a left turn from the right lane at a regular intersection, right? Nor a right turn from the left lane. Approaching a roundabout you need to get or be in the proper lane for the direction you will go exiting the roundabout. Right lane for straight or right turn (first exit). Left lane for straight or left turn (third exit).

But the most important thing is to not enter a roundabout when another vehicle is already in it, even if the right (outside) lane is empty since you don't know where that vehicle is exiting. People entering the roundabout that way and those who make left turns (third exit) from the outside (right) lane are the reasons for most close calls, IMO. The next reason is those who don't yield to another vehicle in the roundabout.

And, yes, you can exit from the inside lane when making a left turn (third exit). There should not be another car beside you assuming no one has entered the roundabout improperly or is making an improper left turn from the right lane, since any car in the right lane entering the roundabout should either have taken the first exit (right turn) or second exit (straight ahead).

Use your signals. On my trips to the UK, it is common to use signals in roundabouts to let others know where you are going/exiting.

[l2ridehd]

And thus where it gets confusing. In a roundabout, if you are not making a right hand turn, you should go to the inside lane and exit from there. If you are in the right hand lane... You must get off at the next exit.

http://youtu.be/qVh04m6xHxw

Not true. Why is this so hard? If you are in the right lane you must exit at the first OR second exit. The left hand lane must exit the second OR third exit. You folks make this to difficult. It is really easy. Once more, it is just like a traffic light with four lanes in each direction. If you want to turn right, enter from the right lane and exit at the first exit. If you want to go left, enter from the left and exit from the left at the third exit. If you want to go straight through, enter either lane and exit from the lane you enter. EXACTLY as you would do with a traffic light.

[Indydealmaker]

Not true. Why is this so hard? If you are in the right lane you must exit at the first OR second exit. The left hand lane must exit the second OR third exit. You folks make this to difficult. It is really easy. Once more, it is just like a traffic light with four lanes in each direction. If you want to turn right, enter from the right lane and exit at the first exit. If you want to go left, enter from the left and exit from the left at the third exit. If you want to go straight through, enter either lane and exit from the lane you enter. EXACTLY as you would do with a traffic light.

I have noticed that some people are obviously confused or misinformed when they are wanting to take the third exit from the inside circle lane into a gate entrance. They always want to try to merge on into the right hand lane so that they can go through the "resident" gate. Many are unaware that a "resident" can enter through either side.

[brostholder]

I really fail to understand how anyone can claim they don't know how to use a roundabout. It is exactly the same as a traffic light. If you want to turn right at a light, you use the right hand lane. If you want to turn left at a light you use the left hand lane. If you want to go straight through you use either lane. And you always yield to someone already in the intersection. Roundabouts work exactly the same way. Those that can't follow those simple rules are probably a problem any where they drive.

The two biggest problems that I have noticed are 1)the people who want to make a left and feel the best way to do it is to go three-quarters around in the right lane, and 2)the people who are just entering the roundabout and intend to go straight from the right lane and don't understand that the car they see already in the roundabout in the left lane is going to exit. When entering, one should yield to cars in the right AND left lanes!

[Bogie Shooter]

A thread about the roundabouts comes up every 3-5 months. The same complaints, theories, opinions, suggestions, etc. are posted. People vent and whine but, things will not change.
Do a search, there are hundreds of posts and thousands of views, enjoy!

[graciegirl]

I really fail to understand how anyone can claim they don't know how to use a roundabout. It is exactly the same as a traffic light. If you want to turn right at a light, you use the right hand lane. If you want to turn left at a light you use the left hand lane. If you want to go straight through you use either lane. And you always yield to someone already in the intersection. Roundabouts work exactly the same way. Those that can't follow those simple rules are probably a problem any where they drive.


PLEASE. READ this and PRINT this.

[Bogie Shooter]

PLEASE. READ this and PRINT this.

Do I sense an increased level of frustration?:eek:

[graciegirl]

Do I sense an increased level of frustration?:eek:

:wave::loco::confused:;) !!!

[Bogie Shooter]

http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path='/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure

doesn't work-it is a shame as a newbie I found the roundabouts with 2 lanes to be new and difficult-very uncomfortable when driving a rental car one is not used to.

Try this. May have to cut an paste.
http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path='/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure - FINAL070908.pdf'&ql=standard

[Bogie Shooter]

The link didn't work.

Even if 75% of the people get it... If 25% don't... they will surly hit the 75%.

It was the two lanes the confused me. You get off the roundabout from the inside lane if you are going past an exit. Who would know that?

Try cut and paste.

[EdV]

Choosing the wrong lane to enter the roundabout is not what’s causing the majority of the accidents. It’s failure to yield until both lanes are free that’s causing most of them.

And why is that? Because it’s counterintuitive to what you’ve been doing all your life. Think about it. When you’re heading home from work in heavy traffic and you’re entering the highway on an entrance ramp., do you wait until both lanes are free or just the right hand lane?

Nuff said?

[Bogie Shooter]

Choosing the wrong lane to enter the roundabout is not what’s causing the majority of the accidents. It’s failure to yield until both lanes are free that’s causing most of them.

And why is that? Because it’s counterintuitive to what you’ve been doing all your life. Think about it. When you’re heading home from work in heavy traffic and you’re entering the highway on an entrance ramp., do you wait until both lanes are free or just the right hand lane?

Nuff said?

You are right. Probably why there are Yield signs when approching the roundabout......if only everyone could read.

[angiefox10]

Try cut and paste.

Thanks Bogie, It takes me to the VCDD page but there is nothing on it. So.... If I go to the home page where do I go from there?

ummmm Wait... maybe I should rephrase that!

What link do I click on?

[EdV]

But there are usually yield signs on the highway entrance ramps too. Sign or no sign, the errant drivers really believe they are doing the right thing when they wait for the right lane to be free without regard for the vehicles in the inner left lane. IMHO, those of you that try to simplify the problem by saying “just treat it like an intersection” are missing the point.

Just saying.

[Bogie Shooter]

Thanks Bogie, It takes me to the VCDD page but there is nothing on it. So.... If I go to the home page where do I go from there?

ummmm Wait... maybe I should rephrase that!

What link do I click on?

http://www.districtgov.org/

scroll down to Sumter County roundabout brochure...click

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Here's a good link for the roundabout brochure:

http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure%20-%20FINAL070908.pdf%27&ql=standard

Bill :)

[Figmo Bohica]

Been here a couple of weeks. Two close calls. One when the lane merged into one and the car in the ourside lane went across my path to keep going left from the outside lane and another time (today) when a truck exited from the inside lane infront of me when I was going around to the next exit. The CDD brochure advises the turns that can be made from which lane and the use of a right turn signal when exiting. Haven't seen much use of turn signals in the roundabouts. A little caution and courtesy would go a long way and one of my own peeves: I don't thing k the roundabouts are the best place to pass IMHO.

Did you not realize that turn signals on auto sold in Florida are optional equipment. :a20:

[hedoman]

Why are there 2 lanes in the roundabouts? Had a person in the center lane cut me off to make the right turn onto Morse. I expected it so avoided an accident.

IMHO one lane would be sufficent to keep moving until the desired path is reached......

[jojo]

Hedoman, If you are in the right lane unless you are exiting at the first exit past your entry point you are technically making a left turn and the car in the center lane has the right of way. The best strategy is to try to stagger your car going around.

[getdul981]

Two rules for the roundabouts:

Rule number 1 - Don't hit another car.

Rule number 2 - Don't get hit by another car.

Simple enough.

[Pturner]

This is an example of what I'm talking about!!!

http://youtu.be/Jesf4xFOg1Q

:laugh:

http://youtu.be/xuxKtxzq2Cs

I guess it's not funny, but... :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

What? You mean I bought that STK Rocket Science Diploma from QVC for nothing?

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQizvHiafnraoCgGMTFI6XPg5NbYjr2u MFY_Z7Z1ik6w7VePxMYcA


:a20:

Y'all are crackin me up.

[jimmemac]

Here's a good link for the roundabout brochure:

http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27/PdfUpload/RoundaboutBrochure%20-%20FINAL070908.pdf%27&ql=standard

Bill :)

Thank you, that is very helpful to people new to roundabouts!!

[Bogie Shooter]

Why are there 2 lanes in the roundabouts? Had a person in the center lane cut me off to make the right turn onto Morse. I expected it so avoided an accident.

IMHO one lane would be sufficent to keep moving until the desired path is reached......

You had to do this post, you did it on purpose right?........just to get them all riled up.:cus:

[hedoman]

You had to do this post, you did it on purpose right?........just to get them all riled up.:cus:

Yupper, time to wake up TV :cus: :cus: :cus: :cus:

[islandgal]

http://www.npr.org/2011/09/28/140877823/going-round-in-circles-over-traffic-fix

[Bogie Shooter]

Yupper, time to wake up TV :cus: :cus: :cus: :cus:

How about a little side bet on the number of posts? BTW all posts will be similiar to the other 5 threads on roundabouts................no new information.

[dillywho]

How about a little side bet on the number of posts? BTW all posts will be similiar to the other 5 threads on roundabouts................no new information.

You may be right, but there are more and more people joining TOTV and moving/visiting here that don't even know we have roundabouts until they get here. Safety refreshers are never a bad idea, even in the form of another thread on an old subject. Some people don't know there are previous threads on a particular subject. Just my opinion.

[Happinow]

Roundabouts can be tricky to navigate, especially when speed is involved. Please keep in mind that newbees may be unfamiliar with the roads in TV and really unfamiliar with roundabouts, making it especially challenging for everyone. We ask for a "break" (no pun intended) when we are driving the roads you are all so familiar with. Yes, you will be impatient and perhaps mumble a few unkind words under your breath, but just remember you were there once too! And as for the golf cart paths? We'll need a break there too. I, for one, will be totally new to driving a golf cart around and will certainly be a slow poke for a bit, but better be safe than sorry. Just a heads up when we all arrive to be greeted by "the friendliest place around". :)

[Bogie Shooter]

Roundabouts can be tricky to navigate, especially when speed is involved. Please keep in mind that newbees may be unfamiliar with the roads in TV and really unfamiliar with roundabouts, making it especially challenging for everyone. We ask for a "break" (no pun intended) when we are driving the roads you are all so familiar with. Yes, you will be impatient and perhaps mumble a few unkind words under your breath, but just remember you were there once too! And as for the golf cart paths? We'll need a break there too. I, for one, will be totally new to driving a golf cart around and will certainly be a slow poke for a bit, but better be safe than sorry. Just a heads up when we all arrive to be greeted by "the friendliest place around". :)

Can you give us advanced warning when you will be in the roundabouts and cart paths?:eek:

[BigLew]

How about a little side bet on the number of posts? BTW all posts will be similiar to the other 5 threads on roundabouts................no new information.

nah, even I didn't read THIS far in the thread!:evil6:

[BigLew]

Roundabouts can be tricky to navigate, especially when speed is involved. Please keep in mind that newbees may be unfamiliar with the roads in TV and really unfamiliar with roundabouts, making it especially challenging for everyone. We ask for a "break" (no pun intended) when we are driving the roads you are all so familiar with. Yes, you will be impatient and perhaps mumble a few unkind words under your breath, but just remember you were there once too! And as for the golf cart paths? We'll need a break there too. I, for one, will be totally new to driving a golf cart around and will certainly be a slow poke for a bit, but better be safe than sorry. Just a heads up when we all arrive to be greeted by "the friendliest place around". :)

no problem, just do what everyone else does when they drive here...close your eyes! :22yikes:

[Happinow]

Can you give us advanced warning when you will be in the roundabouts and cart paths?:eek:

You made me laugh! I'll put a sign on the back of the cart saying "give me a break, I'm new to The Villages"!!!

[Golf-Tinker]

The UK requires that new drivers mount a large red L on their vehicles to signify to other drivers that they are still learning. Perhaps, a parallel situation? Drivers new to The Villages would mount large roundabout circle on their vehicles until they pass a "roundabout" driving test. Impossible to make it happen, but it's a thought.

[Schaumburger]

Roundabouts can be tricky to navigate, especially when speed is involved. Please keep in mind that newbees may be unfamiliar with the roads in TV and really unfamiliar with roundabouts, making it especially challenging for everyone. We ask for a "break" (no pun intended) when we are driving the roads you are all so familiar with. Yes, you will be impatient and perhaps mumble a few unkind words under your breath, but just remember you were there once too! And as for the golf cart paths? We'll need a break there too. I, for one, will be totally new to driving a golf cart around and will certainly be a slow poke for a bit, but better be safe than sorry. Just a heads up when we all arrive to be greeted by "the friendliest place around". :)

Don't worry if people pass you on the golf cart paths when you first move to TV. Several people passed me on the paths when I rented this year. I was in TV to enjoy myself; I was not in a race to get anywhere. And when I entered the roundabouts, I kept my eyes open and watched for the other cars and sudden lane changes by other drivers.

[cappyjon431]

no problem, just do what everyone else does when they drive here...close your eyes! :22yikes:

I close my eyes AND accelerate!

[Happinow]

I close my eyes AND accelerate!

:laugh:

[getdul981]

I close my eyes AND accelerate!

Soooo, YOU'RE the one

[Russ_Boston]

In the past I've seen lots of people (in the right hand lane) make that 3/4 left on me and I'm careful to look for it. But tonight someone made a 1/4 right on me from the inside lane. Took all my willpower not to intentionally drive him into oncoming traffic!!

From now on I enter alone!

[cappyjon431]

In the past I've seen lots of people (in the right hand lane) make that 3/4 left on me and I'm careful to look for it. But tonight someone made a 1/4 right on me from the inside lane. Took all my willpower not to intentionally drive him into oncoming traffic!!

From now on I enter alone!

ALWAYS be on the lookout, but just remember: 5/4 of people don't understand fractions.

[VillagesFlorida]

Why are there 2 lanes in the roundabouts? Had a person in the center lane cut me off to make the right turn onto Morse. I expected it so avoided an accident.

IMHO one lane would be sufficent to keep moving until the desired path is reached......

I agree totally! The Villages is NOT the place for roundabouts. Too many of us have neck and shoulder problems that prevent us from turning our heads quickly to check for traffic. Eyesight can be diminished by now and some will even be experiencing much slower reaction times while driving. This is an elderly community, no matter how many of us do not feel old. Why was no thought given to how confusing a roundabout can be for seniors? Why is there a "left lane" in a roundabout when there is never a "left turn"? Perhaps roundabouts work in other parts of the world or in areas where there isn't an elderly population. Expecting a group of people, whose average age is over 66, to be able to navigate through these 2-lane circles is unrealistic. Add in the many, many visitors who come here every year who are not familiar with our streets, let alone roundabouts. Add in the "locals" AND residents whose mission it is to get from one area in The Villages to another in the shortest possible time. When I look at the big picture I see nothing but a recipe for disaster. If there HAD to be roundabouts here one lane would have been sufficient and would have prevented many, many of the accidents and near-misses we are experiencing every day. How easy it would be if all we had to do was yield to those in the roundabout and enter when it is safe to do so. All vehicles would be in the one and only "right lane" so there would be no cutting off as drivers try to exit from a left lane. The crux of the roundabout problem boils down to one main issue: Having a left lane when there are NO left turns, anywhere. I am no engineer but this makes absolutely no sense to me. All roundabouts need to be reworked to eliminate the left lane. We all would feel a whole lot safer and our visitors and guests would have a much easier time driving in this community. I realize from reading the many posts here that some residents feel that roundabouts are not a problem. They are a huge problem when you consider the age of our population and the fact that this is a retirement community. If you are lucky enough to have the reflexes, eyesight, and mental capacity that you had at 30 you are very fortunate and you are in a very tiny minority. The fact is that most of us are dealing with the problems of aging. Putting us in a roundabout, in a left lane that leads to no left turn is asking for accidents and injuries.

[Mikeod]

I agree totally! The Villages is NOT the place for roundabouts. Too many of us have neck and shoulder problems that prevent us from turning our heads quickly to check for traffic. Eyesight can be diminished by now and some will even be experiencing much slower reaction times while driving. This is an elderly community, no matter how many of us do not feel old. Why was no thought given to how confusing a roundabout can be for seniors? Why is there a "left lane" in a roundabout when there is never a "left turn"? Perhaps roundabouts work in other parts of the world or in areas where there isn't an elderly population. Expecting a group of people, whose average age is over 66, to be able to navigate through these 2-lane circles is unrealistic. Add in the many, many visitors who come here every year who are not familiar with our streets, let alone roundabouts. Add in the "locals" AND residents whose mission it is to get from one area in The Villages to another in the shortest possible time. When I look at the big picture I see nothing but a recipe for disaster. If there HAD to be roundabouts here one lane would have been sufficient and would have prevented many, many of the accidents and near-misses we are experiencing every day. How easy it would be if all we had to do was yield to those in the roundabout and enter when it is safe to do so. All vehicles would be in the one and only "right lane" so there would be no cutting off as drivers try to exit from a left lane. The crux of the roundabout problem boils down to one main issue: Having a left lane when there are NO left turns, anywhere. I am no engineer but this makes absolutely no sense to me. All roundabouts need to be reworked to eliminate the left lane. We all would feel a whole lot safer and our visitors and guests would have a much easier time driving in this community. I realize from reading the many posts here that some residents feel that roundabouts are not a problem. They are a huge problem when you consider the age of our population and the fact that this is a retirement community. If you are lucky enough to have the reflexes, eyesight, and mental capacity that you had at 30 you are very fortunate and you are in a very tiny minority. The fact is that most of us are dealing with the problems of aging. Putting us in a roundabout, in a left lane that leads to no left turn is asking for accidents and injuries.

The roundabouts are not going to be changed. The two lanes were a county requirement due to the density of the development. Roundabouts are increasing around the country. There are just a few basic tenets to negotiating a roundabout.

1.. Entering: Enter a roundabout in the proper lane for the direction you will be heading. Right lane for right turn or straight (continuing on the current road). Left lane for continuing or turning left (3rd exit). Same as a regular intersection. Never enter a roundabout when there is traffic to your left, even if one lane is clear. Always approach a roundabout with the expectation you will have to yield, not that you will yield only if you absolutely have to.

2. In the roundabout: Do not change lanes except to exit at the third exit, which usually requires crossing the outside lane. Use your signals in case someone doesn't follow the rules above. Your side mirror is your friend.

3. Take it slow and watch for the other guy. Just basic defensive driving.

:popcorn:

[buzzy]

5/4% of people don't understand fractions.

That's a real gem.

[Bogie Shooter]

In the past I've seen lots of people (in the right hand lane) make that 3/4 left on me and I'm careful to look for it. But tonight someone made a 1/4 right on me from the inside lane. Took all my willpower not to intentionally drive him into oncoming traffic!!

From now on I enter alone!

How did you get that close to the offending driver? Yield?

[HelenLCSW]

The roundabouts are not going to be changed. The two lanes were a county requirement due to the density of the development. Roundabouts are increasing around the country. There are just a few basic tenets to negotiating a roundabout.

1.. Entering: Enter a roundabout in the proper lane for the direction you will be heading. Right lane for right turn or straight (continuing on the current road). Left lane for continuing or turning left (3rd exit). Same as a regular intersection. Never enter a roundabout when there is traffic to your left, even if one lane is clear. Always approach a roundabout with the expectation you will have to yield, not that you will yield only if you absolutely have to.

2. In the roundabout: Do not change lanes except to exit at the third exit, which usually requires crossing the outside lane. Use your signals in case
someone doesn't follow the rules above. Your side mirror is your friend.

3. Take it slow and watch for the other guy. Just basic defensive driving.

:popcorn:

:agree:Good advice

[Bogie Shooter]

The roundabouts are not going to be changed. The two lanes were a county requirement due to the density of the development. Roundabouts are increasing around the country. There are just a few basic tenets to negotiating a roundabout.

1.. Entering: Enter a roundabout in the proper lane for the direction you will be heading. Right lane for right turn or straight (continuing on the current road). Left lane for continuing or turning left (3rd exit). Same as a regular intersection. Never enter a roundabout when there is traffic to your left, even if one lane is clear. Always approach a roundabout with the expectation you will have to yield, not that you will yield only if you absolutely have to.

2. In the roundabout: Do not change lanes except to exit at the third exit, which usually requires crossing the outside lane. Use your signals in case someone doesn't follow the rules above. Your side mirror is your friend.

3. Take it slow and watch for the other guy. Just basic defensive driving.

:popcorn:

Hundreds of views and posts regarding roundabouts and it comes to this.
A very simple and understandable explanation. All the other offerings are a waste of time. Good Job!

[Halle]

The roundabouts are not going to be changed. The two lanes were a county requirement due to the density of the development. Roundabouts are increasing around the country. There are just a few basic tenets to negotiating a roundabout.

1.. Entering: Enter a roundabout in the proper lane for the direction you will be heading. Right lane for right turn or straight (continuing on the current road). Left lane for continuing or turning left (3rd exit). Same as a regular intersection. Never enter a roundabout when there is traffic to your left, even if one lane is clear. Always approach a roundabout with the expectation you will have to yield, not that you will yield only if you absolutely have to.

2. In the roundabout: Do not change lanes except to exit at the third exit, which usually requires crossing the outside lane. Use your signals in case someone doesn't follow the rules above. Your side mirror is your friend.

3. Take it slow and watch for the other guy. Just basic defensive driving.

:popcorn:

:bigbow:

Very easy to understand, now if we can just convince people to follow the rules and not do what feels right to them even if it is against the rules.

[Russ_Boston]

How did you get that close to the offending driver? Yield?

We entered the roundabout (when clear) together. He immediately took the first right from the inside lane (a no -no - see Mike's great explanation above if you are not sure). That's why I said I'll enter alone from now on. Let the other guy go first.

[collie1228]

I know I'm repeating myself as I've made this point before, but why would anyone want to use the left lane in the roundabout if they are going straight ahead (continuing on the same road)? I know the rules say either left or right lanes are optional in that situation, but I always stay in the right lane when going straight ahead. This way I never have to worry about anyone to my right as long as I've yielded to any other vehicle in the circle. I find my biggest problems with roundabouts is that I don't always pay enough attention to my speed when entering. When I'm paying attention my speed at entrance, I never seem to have any problem negotiating them.

[Mikeod]

I know I'm repeating myself as I've made this point before, but why would anyone want to use the left lane in the roundabout if they are going straight ahead (continuing on the same road)? I know the rules say either left or right lanes are optional in that situation, but I always stay in the right lane when going straight ahead. This way I never have to worry about anyone to my right as long as I've yielded to any other vehicle in the circle. I find my biggest problems with roundabouts is that I don't always pay enough attention to my speed when entering. When I'm paying attention my speed at entrance, I never seem to have any problem negotiating them.

I agree. I usually try to be in the right lane if I'm going straight so I won't have to worry about someone trying to exit at the third exit (a left turn). However, especially when going south there sometimes are cars filling the right lane and I can't safely get over to the right before the roundabout. Then I usually slow so the car to my right is in front and I can make sure they are also going straight or hit the brakes if they cut in front of me.

I will admit that roundabouts require a little forethought as you approach.

[Russ_Boston]

I was in the right hand lane when entering and the guy I entered with went dead right at the first exit! If entering with someone else you just have to assume that they have no idea!

[EdV]

ALWAYS be on the lookout, but just remember: 5/4% of people don't understand fractions.

I think you've underestimated here. 5/4% of 80,000 is only 1000.

[cappyjon431]

I think you've underestimated here. 5/4% of 80,000 is only 1000.

Oops. I think I accidently included the percent sign.

[getdul981]

I think you've underestimated here. 5/4% of 80,000 is only 1000.

Sooo, you're saying that 395/4% actually DO understand fractions???

[Mikeod]

I was in the right hand lane when entering and the guy I entered with went dead right at the first exit! If entering with someone else you just have to assume that they have no idea!

Boston driver?

I remember Joe Green (in his flying machine) on WBZ radio wanting to drop balloons with red paint on some of the idiots he saw on the Southeast "distressway" many years ago. I still like that concept. When you see a car with red paint all over it, stay away!

[Longrider49]

The two biggest problems that I have noticed are 1)the people who want to make a left and feel the best way to do it is to go three-quarters around in the right lane, and 2)the people who are just entering the roundabout and intend to go straight from the right lane and don't understand that the car they see already in the roundabout in the left lane is going to exit. When entering, one should yield to cars in the right AND left lanes!
This is one of the biggest infractions I have noted. Again I reiterate passing in the roundabout itself is probably ill advised.