New Roundabout Signs

[Mikeod]

New signs are up for the roundabouts at least in some locations and they clearly show the path each lane should follow through the roundabout. Unfortunately, some people are not noticing the new signs and still follow the right lane all the way around as happened to me just now at the gate to Caroline. I'm sure some are not looking at the signs at all because they just "know" how to navigate the roundabout. But there is hope new residents and visitors will use the signs and close calls will decrease gradually.

[Bogie Shooter]

New signs are up for the roundabouts at least in some locations and they clearly show the path each lane should follow through the roundabout. Unfortunately, some people are not noticing the new signs and still follow the right lane all the way around as happened to me just now at the gate to Caroline. I'm sure some are not looking at the signs at all because they just "know" how to navigate the roundabout. But there is hope new residents and visitors will use the signs and close calls will decrease gradually.

There also is a yield sign when entering the roundabout......which many people ignore.

[Figmo Bohica]

There also is a yield sign when entering the roundabout......which many people ignore.

Just like they ignore stop signs.

[rubicon]

I suspect there would have been as many ifractions if The Villages constructed four way intersection vis a vis round-abouts.....just saying

[Pturner]

Wow! A roundabout thread with only five posts! :D :faint:

[chuckinca]

I'll bite - who does it bother if you always use the outside lane?


.

[Bogie Shooter]

I'll bite - who does it bother if you always use the outside lane?


.

The guy that runs into your left front quarter panel.

[Mikeod]

The guy that runs into your left front quarter panel.
Or the guy in the proper lane who is trying to exit and is blocked by the car improperly in the outside lane.

[chuckinca]

The guy that runs into your left front quarter panel.


Not yielding to traffic and makin a right turn from the left lane is stupid!


.

[Bogie Shooter]

Or the guy in the proper lane who is trying to exit and is blocked by the car improperly in the outside lane.

same guy

[chuckinca]

Or the guy in the proper lane who is trying to exit and is blocked by the car improperly in the outside lane.

A matter of timing - the inside lane car should lag behind outside lane car or the outside lane car shouldn't enter the round n round until the inside line car has passed.


.

[NJblue]

Chuck, I take it you don't live here yet. When you do, you will soon realize the danger that is caused by those who take the outside lane regardless of where they plan to exit the circle. Yesterday I was almost involved with such an accident with one of the trolleys whose driver apparently has never been properly trained.

[Barefoot]

I'll bite - who does it bother if you always use the outside lane? .

Not yielding to traffic and makin a right turn from the left lane is stupid! .

A matter of timing - the inside lane car should lag behind outside lane car or the outside lane car shouldn't enter the round n round until the inside line car has passed. .

Boy howdy. These posts should cause a ripple! :shocked:

[Penguin]

The guy that runs into your left front quarter panel.
:clap2:

[skyguy79]

A matter of timing - the inside lane car should lag behind outside lane car or the outside lane car shouldn't enter the round n round until the inside line car has passed.
.Chuck, seeing how long you've been around and how many posts you have, I believe I know what you're up to... and I have a little chuckle with each post! However, as much I appreciate the posts, don't you think that there may be some of those people, that are being talked about here, that read these posts and are already confused enough?

[hedoman]

Who can read a sign going 50 mph? Or can't see over the stearing wheel?

Chuckinca please tell me you live here with your number of posts... So many people have "visited" here a few times at best and have 5 times as many posts as I do.....I only jump in when I feel it neccessary but others, who don't live here for some period of time each year, can't see the things that are changing....just sayin

[B. Johnson]

Having lived in Europe for over four decades I have seen, during the last ten years, the popularity of roundabouts increase significantly, I suspect because it cuts down on energy costs associated with traffic lights, etc...
In Germany ( unlike in France where the multi-lane roundabouts are a nightmare) I have yet to see a multiple lane roundabout being built. They function very well following the rule that cars on the roundabout have right of way, those entering must yield, and the car exiting the roundabout must signal his exit. Functions very well! I recently drove the roundabouts in TV and can't believe what a disorganized mess it was. Why would anyone want an inner lane, serves no purpose that I can see except to confuse drivers entering and exiting. Maybe some creative re-working of the painted traffic lines in the roundabout could reduce the flow to single lane and eliminate the confusion and danger. Just my thoughts on the "every man for himself" situation we seem to be enduring now.

[l2ridehd]

They really are simple to use and if the rules are followed work extremely well.

They work 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.

[getdul981]

they really are simple to use and if the rules are followed work extremely well.

They work 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.

yuuuuuup!!

[graciegirl]

Not yielding to traffic and makin a right turn from the left lane is stupid!


.

Chuck. It may sound stupid, but that is how you are SUPPOSED to navigate the roundabouts. And Bogie was right. If you are going around the entire circle in the right lane, the guy to your left has the right to turn right.

ooooboy. No wonder we have problems with the directives in the circles.

Please. All newbies and oldies and golden oldies read the directives one more time. There will be a test. Can someone take a picture of those new signs and post it on here. I think they are great! And Bicyclists....o never mind.

[skyguy79]

They really are simple to use and if the rules are followed work extremely well.

They work 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.It couldn't be put any simpler than it's put here. And... as a bonus you don't have to wait for your lane to turn green! :D

[kathy and al]

They really are simple to use and if the rules are followed work extremely well.

They work 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.
At the risk of sounding totally uninformed, I need to ask when you might need to" make a left hand turn" at any roundabout and when might you be able to "go straight through" at any roundabout. Since both of these sound impossible, it would seem that the right hand lane is the only one to be in????

[DDoug]

These roundabouts are to small to use the way they were designed the only safe place is in the right lane.

[memason]

Really, you should treat a roundabout like any other intersection, just with a circle in the middle. Don't over analyze it...

Don't look at the circle and you'll see it's very easy to navigate.

[graciegirl]

These roundabouts are to small to use the way they were designed the only safe place is in the right lane.

IF you stay in the right lane all the way around you are in danger of having your left side of your car smacked by people directed to turn right in left lane. It is NOT safe. If you are going to the third outlet you should be in left lane where you can turn right. If you are going to the first or second outlet then the right hand lane is safe.

So in essence if you plan to make a left on the intersection. Get in the left hand lane where you will make a right to go left. Simple.:popcorn::icon_wink:

[graciegirl]

Really, you should treat a roundabout like any other intersection, just with a circle in the middle. Don't over analyze it...

Don't look at the circle and you'll see it's very easy to navigate.
bump

Note...there are red lines and blue lines. Study UP!!

Mike would you please repost your picture. It didn't come up in my post. Sorry.

[kathy and al]

IF you stay in the right lane all the way around you are in danger of having your left side of your car smacked by people directed to turn right in left lane. It is NOT safe. If you are going to the third outlet you should be in left lane where you can turn right. If you are going to the first or second outlet then the right hand lane is safe.

So in essence if you plan to make a left on the intersection. Get in the left hand lane where you will make a right to go left. Simple.:popcorn::icon_wink:
Gracie-ask me if I"m still confused!!

[Bogie Shooter]

Gracie-ask me if I"m still confused!!

As a start to understanding.....please read this brochure.

Go to www.districtgov.org
Near the middle of the page is Sumter County Roundabout brochure.

[Happinow]

I know I'm a little confused. We only have 1, that's right, 1 round about in my town where I live now and it's one lane. (Thank God) In a round a bout, the idea is to exit somewhere and an exit is always to the right. (correct me if I'm wrong.) How can it be safe being in the left hand lane at anytime if you are going to exit right? The traffic is going so fast that your chance of making the lane change to exit right is daunting. You'd probably have to sit there almost stopped in the L lane to get into the R land due to traffic not letting you over. Yes, I'm one who doesn't live there yet but I get the picture. I think I'll put rubber bumpers on the side of my SUV before I get there! Perhaps what TV should do for future round a bouts is construct one lane. It may slow the flow of traffic (which is needed) but at least it would flow more smoothly. For what it's worth..........:popcorn:

[memason]

I know I'm a little confused. We only have 1, that's right, 1 round about in my town where I live now and it's one lane. (Thank God) In a round a bout, the idea is to exit somewhere and an exit is always to the right. (correct me if I'm wrong.) How can it be safe being in the left hand lane at anytime if you are going to exit right? The traffic is going so fast that your chance of making the lane change to exit right is daunting. You'd probably have to sit there almost stopped in the L lane to get into the R land due to traffic not letting you over. Yes, I'm one who doesn't live there yet but I get the picture. I think I'll put rubber bumpers on the side of my SUV before I get there! Perhaps what TV should do for future round a bouts is construct one lane. It may slow the flow of traffic (which is needed) but at least it would flow more smoothly. For what it's worth..........:popcorn:

I don't understand how you could even write a post like this, if you looked at the previous posts [right above yours] with photos or followed Bogies link to the roundabout instructions. Neither of those (photos or instructions) say anything about turning RIGHT from the LEFT lane.

Sorry, not trying to be mean, but I don't get it ???? :shrug:

[Happinow]

I don't understand how you could even write a post like this, if you looked at the previous posts [right above yours] with photos or followed Bogies link to the roundabout instructions. Neither of those (photos or instructions) say anything about turning RIGHT from the LEFT lane.

Sorry, not trying to be mean, but I don't get it ???? :shrug:

Perhaps I need to re read....give me a sec.

[Happinow]

This is what confused me....Gracie said..

If you are going to the third outlet you should be in left lane where you can turn right.

Gracie, you're confusing me. It's ok though, I'll figure it out. Everyone, no need to try to set me straight. My mind is clearly not working right today. Or, I need to drive it! Duh for me.

[lightworker888]

for me is to make sure that there are no cars in the roundabout and that there is sufficient time and room to allow for those coming in from the left, regardless of which lane they are in. When turning at the 3rd exit, I check for the cars coming into the roundabout at the second exit, signal my intention and move into the right lane. If I am turning at the second exit, I do my best to be in the right lane as that eliminates the problem of being T-boned. Perhaps I will have more of a challenge in March, as we have always been in TV for April/May and Sept/Nov. and traffic may be lighter in those months.


LW888

[skyguy79]

As a start to understanding.....please read this brochure.

Go to www.districtgov.org (http://www.districtgov.org)
Near the middle of the page is Sumter County Roundabout brochure.Thanks for the post and link. Looking at the new signage, I couldn't help feeling that the only way they could have made it simpler is if they drove through the rab for you!

Another thing that should be noted is that if you're are in the outer lane, and a vehicle in the inner lane makes a legal exit, you will be the one that will most likely be issued a traffic ticket. Comments on not only this thread, but other threads on this topic, I'm positive that there a a number of people that don't realize this.

Also, recently my wife was traveling south on Buena Vista prepared to move into the center lane. Half way in she was suddenly blinded by the sun and had to quickly stop. It was only a few seconds before she recovered and was sure of her placement in the inner circle, but if another driver appeared around the bend of the inner cicle or behind her and had their nose in her butt, there most likely would have been an accident. Always leave adequate space when behind someone entering the rab and be prepared and expect the unexpected!

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Roundabouts brochure, from the Sumter County government's web site:

http://sumtercountyfl.gov/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3939

Brochure is dated 'February 2012' (bottom of page 1).

Bill :)

[Carla B]

There is a clear explanation of the roundabout rules in the February 2012 POA Bulletin. They were explained by Scott Cottrell, Director of Sumter Co. Public Works at the January POA meeting:See link Property Owners, Association of Florida (http://poa4us.org)

At least there is hope..the 300 people who attended the meeting should now understand how to navigate the roundabouts:clap2:

[Indydealmaker]

Not yielding to traffic and makin a right turn from the left lane is stupid!


.

This is the part that confuses everybody, technically you are completing a "left" turn when you make a right turn; except when you make a "right" turn or go straight! Wow! I guess the secret to safe navigation of a roundabout is MERGE into the flow at 20 mph or less and never drive parallel to another vehicle; and always use your right turn signal as soon as you pass the exit immediately prior to one you expect to take.

[pooh]

By Skyguy....Thanks for the post and link. Looking at the new signage, I couldn't help feeling that the only way they could have made it simpler is if they drove through the rab for you!

LOL...can you imagine the back up as we each waited our turn to have our cars driven....:a20::a20:

[Lou and Carolyn C.]

:ohdear:I understand the basic concept with regards to the Roundabout (RAB), however one thing does confuse me and I know I’ll be chastised by those who have “COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING” OF THE RAB, but here goes:

Say I’m approaching a RAB in the left lane and I know I will be exiting at the 3rd exit into a residential gate where there are two lanes, one for visitors and the other for residents, well being a resident I may choose to use the residence side of the gate, Right?? So if I’m exiting from the inside RAB lane toward the gate, which would be the left hand lane entering through the visitors side, here is the problem for me, as I would need to switch lanes and get in the right hand (residents side) in order to use my residence pass, I’m always nervous switching over to the right hand lane fearing that I’m going to get hit by another vehicle on my right. Signed Nervous Nelly!! :faint:

[Bogie Shooter]

:ohdear:I understand the basic concept with regards to the Roundabout (RAB), however one thing does confuse me and I know I’ll be chastised by those who have “COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING” OF THE RAB, but here goes:

Say I’m approaching a RAB in the left lane and I know I will be exiting at the 3rd exit into a residential gate where there are two lanes, one for visitors and the other for residents, well being a resident I may choose to use the residence side of the gate, Right?? So if I’m exiting from the inside RAB lane toward the gate, which would be the left hand lane entering through the visitors side, here is the problem for me, as I would need to switch lanes and get in the right hand (residents side) in order to use my residence pass, I’m always nervous switching over to the right hand lane fearing that I’m going to get hit by another vehicle on my right. Signed Nervous Nelly!! :faint:

Never change lanes in a RAB.
When you exit in your example go to either lane.
Always look to the right to see if another car has entered without yielding or is traveling faster than you are. Don't forget to signal.....its that little lever on your steering wheel.

[memason]

:ohdear:I understand the basic concept with regards to the Roundabout (RAB), however one thing does confuse me and I know I’ll be chastised by those who have “COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING” OF THE RAB, but here goes:

Say I’m approaching a RAB in the left lane and I know I will be exiting at the 3rd exit into a residential gate where there are two lanes, one for visitors and the other for residents, well being a resident I may choose to use the residence side of the gate, Right?? So if I’m exiting from the inside RAB lane toward the gate, which would be the left hand lane entering through the visitors side, here is the problem for me, as I would need to switch lanes and get in the right hand (residents side) in order to use my residence pass, I’m always nervous switching over to the right hand lane fearing that I’m going to get hit by another vehicle on my right. Signed Nervous Nelly!! :faint:

Congratulations! In this example, you navigated the RAB properly :coolsmiley:. If you want to go through the resident gate, merge over to the right lane, after you've cleared the RAB.

However, you realize that you can go through either gate, right? Your gate pass works on either of the gates, so if you can't merge to the right, just use the left gate. In fact, it's sometimes faster to go through the left gate at busy gates, like St. Charles at Miona Rec. Center.

[NJblue]

:ohdear:I understand the basic concept with regards to the Roundabout (RAB), however one thing does confuse me and I know I’ll be chastised by those who have “COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING” OF THE RAB, but here goes:

Say I’m approaching a RAB in the left lane and I know I will be exiting at the 3rd exit into a residential gate where there are two lanes, one for visitors and the other for residents, well being a resident I may choose to use the residence side of the gate, Right?? So if I’m exiting from the inside RAB lane toward the gate, which would be the left hand lane entering through the visitors side, here is the problem for me, as I would need to switch lanes and get in the right hand (residents side) in order to use my residence pass, I’m always nervous switching over to the right hand lane fearing that I’m going to get hit by another vehicle on my right. Signed Nervous Nelly!! :faint:

This is a good question and a general point of confusion. The guidelines say to not change lanes while in the circle, yet the circle I am most familiar with (Morse and Odell by Havana) has a dashed lane divider line in the circle just before the exit into Hemingway and then a solid line once you are on the road leading to the gate. What this implies to me is that they actually want you to start merging into the right (outside) lane while still in the circle. So, this is what I do: as I approach my exit I make sure no one is trying to overtake me in the outside lane, turn my turn signal on, and slowly merge into the outside lane to make my turn. By so doing I also prevent the people who like to race around on the outside lane from creating an accident.

[Lou and Carolyn C.]

It just seems like an accident waiting to happen in my opinion.

Good advice by-the-way about using the little lever on the steering wheel!!
I would never have thought of that, plus it always works! Right?

[Bogie Shooter]

It just seems like an accident waiting to happen in my opinion.

Good advice by-the-way about using the little lever on the steering wheel!!
I would never have thought of that, plus it always works! Right?

We are trying to advance this concept at every opportunity.:popcorn:

[Lou and Carolyn C.]

Congratulations! In this example, you navigated the RAB properly :coolsmiley:. If you want to go through the resident gate, merge over to the right lane, after you've cleared the RAB.

However, you realize that you can go through either gate, right? Your gate pass works on either of the gates, so if you can't merge to the right, just use the left gate. In fact, it's sometimes faster to go through the left gate at busy gates, like St. Charles at Miona Rec. Center.

I did NOT know that the gate pass works on either side of the gate(s), I thought the left side was for visitors only or for someone that has forgotten to carry their gate pass with them, and you must get the gate attendants go ahead before entry. I suppose it doesn't matter then which side you use to enter, just thought as a resident and have a pass we should use this side, basically if that's the case why have a pass? But that's a story for another day. :-)

[Graytop]

Congratulations! In this example, you navigated the RAB properly :coolsmiley:. If you want to go through the resident gate, merge over to the right lane, after you've cleared the RAB.

However, you realize that you can go through either gate, right? Your gate pass works on either of the gates, so if you can't merge to the right, just use the left gate. In fact, it's sometimes faster to go through the left gate at busy gates, like St. Charles at Miona Rec. Center.

...depends which kind of a gate you're at,...if you're at a manned gate and in the visitors lane you have to wait for the troll to open the gate for you...:icon_wink:

[NJblue]

I did NOT know that the gate pass works on either side of the gate(s), I thought the left side was for visitors only or for someone that has forgotten to carry their gate pass with them, and you must get the gate attendants go ahead before entry. I suppose it doesn't matter then which side you use to enter, just thought as a resident and have a pass we should use this side, basically if that's the case why have a pass? But that's a story for another day. :-)

The problem with using the visitor entrance for unattended gates is that when there are visitors ahead of you, you have to wait for them to push the button (sometimes after a long period of confusion about what to do), the central gate operator to respond to the button push, say "welcome to the Villages" and open the gate. When no one is ahead of you, either gate works fine.

[Pocadot55]

I read somewhere that if you are in the right lane and bypass an exit you must be careful that the car in your left lane isn't exiting at the next exit. If he does and you broadside him, you will be at fault. I think that was in the paper last week. It's worth checking out. Everyone, please be careful. A few seconds may be the difference between ...........

[George Bieniaszek]

The most logical solution of the roundabout issues would be to make them 1 lane and everyone would have to merge into 1 lane before entering them. That way, there would be no issues with people making right turns from the left lane or left turns from the right lane.

[Bogie Shooter]

The most logical solution of the roundabout issues would be to make them 1 lane and everyone would have to merge into 1 lane before entering them. That way, there would be no issues with people making right turns from the left lane or left turns from the right lane.

Only problem....the traffic would back up and the result would be no different that a 4 way stop.
Roundabouts are really not that difficult!

[graciegirl]

They are not that difficult. You are right, Bogie. Go back and study that diagram.

Remember too, the person IN the roundabout has the right of way. I saw someone pull out into a roundabout today and almost hit a car in the roundabout. Yield means Yield.

[skyguy79]

They are not that difficult. You are right, Bogie. Go back and study that diagram.

Remember too, the person IN the roundabout has the right away. I saw someone pull out into a roundabout today and almost hit a car in the roundabout. Yield means Yield.You're right that it's not that hard. I've only driven through the RAB's a couple time since moving down here. Before doing so I reviewed the onlline how-to documentation and went through the different options until I was fully familiar with the where I should be. The only problem I had was in remembering and timing the turn signal for the exit from the left lane on the first go around. New people aught to do the same thing and those who think they know without checking first as soon as they can.

BTW, that person that pulled out and almost hit a car probably things "Yeald? Why do they put up a sign telling me that my savings account has a lousy yeald?" :ohdear:

[renielarson]

Tell me if I'm right or wrong. When I drive the roundabouts I use the outer lane ONLY if I'm making the FIRST right hand turn I can make. Otherwise, I drive the inner lane and make subsequent right turns from there. Is this correct?

[skyguy79]

Tell me if I'm right or wrong. When I drive the roundabouts I use the outer lane ONLY if I'm making the FIRST right hand turn I can make. Otherwise, I drive the inner lane and make subsequent right turns from there. Is this correct?Wrong, you can use the right lane for the second (not third) right hand turn. That's also called going straight... and it keeps you out of prison! :duck:

[FMF Doc]

Wrong, you can use the right lane for the second (not third) right hand turn. That's also called going straight... and it keeps you out of prison! :duck:

Not all the time. Sometimes you can only exit the first exit from the right lane.

As you enter the RAB look at the pavement, there are arrows that show what you can do legally in each lane. The arrows are at each entry to the RAB.

[Barefoot]

Wow! A roundabout thread with only five posts! :D :faint:

PT, make that 55 posts! :icon_wink:

Last week I saw a woman stop her car in a roundabout. She then proceded to get out of her car with a map to ask the driver behind her for directions.

[ceejay]

PT, make that 55 posts! :icon_wink:

Last week I saw a woman stop her car in a roundabout. She then proceded to get out of her car with a map to ask the driver behind her for directions.

:22yikes::shocked::22yikes:

Staggering (not after drinking!) is so important. Have patience and wait till it's clear to proceed.

Blinkers are the next most important thing.

It really isn't hard...if I can do it, you can too!:)

[skyguy79]

Not all the time. Sometimes you can only exit the first exit from the right lane.

As you enter the RAB look at the pavement, there are arrows that show what you can do legally in each lane. The arrows are at each entry to the RAB.Huh! When can you exit the the first exit from the left lane? That's what you're implying by the highlighed sentence and that's not even logical since you'd be taking a right from the left lane. I don't know what your preceving, but all I'm saying is in a RAB that you can use the right hand lane to turn right or continue straight (second exit) but not continue on for the next (third) exit or in other words a left. I was answering the question from the perspective of the one asking the question. Your statement doesn't seem compatable with what I was answering!

[Bogie Shooter]

Where have we heard this all before, wait I know.................the other 5+ threads with hundreds of posts.
This too shall pass and then in 4-6 weeks a new roundabout thread will appear and low an behold we will hear from the same folks who cannot believe how difficult roundabouts really are. :loco:

[skyguy79]

Where have we heard this all before, wait I know.................the other 5+ threads with hundreds of posts.
This too shall pass and then in 4-6 weeks a new roundabout thread will appear and low an behold we will hear from the same folks who cannot believe how difficult roundabouts really are. :loco:I haven't seen Bill Murry make his post yet!

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR1XZ1-xobcDhCB4L0ky2OJk1bFVOlJ0M85J7-OuLT-nObX5qlv-oNTnw

[FMF Doc]

Huh! When can you exit the the first exit from the left lane? That's what you're implying by the highlighed sentence and that's not even logical since you'd be taking a right from the left lane. I don't know what your preceving, but all I'm saying is in a RAB that you can use the right hand lane to turn right or continue straight (second exit) but not continue on for the next (third) exit or in other words a left. I was answering the question from the perspective of the one asking the question. Your statement doesn't seem compatable with what I was answering!

What I am saying is on SOME of the RAB if you are in the right lane you can only exit to the right and cannot continue straight ahead.

[borjo]

Left lane if you're going 3/4 around, don't be next to any car(stagger) and don't change lanes once you're in the circle. Do signal before you exit. Simple!

[CMANN]

Or the guy in the proper lane who is trying to exit and is blocked by the car improperly in the outside lane.

easiest roundabout rules.

Vehicles in the roundabout have the right-of-way.

Drive single file in the roundabout, no passing allowed.

Why does it have to be any more complicated?

[skyguy79]

What I am saying is on SOME of the RAB if you are in the right lane you can only exit to the right and cannot continue straight ahead.Please provide a location of one like you're talking about. Neither my wife or I recall seeing any like that. I'd like to take a look see at it on Google Satellite!

[Bettiboop]

Tell me if I'm right or wrong. When I drive the roundabouts I use the outer lane ONLY if I'm making the FIRST right hand turn I can make. Otherwise, I drive the inner lane and make subsequent right turns from there. Is this correct?

Technically I think you are in the right to do it this way, but I found it to be safer to enter the RAB in the outer lane if I am taking FIRST or SECOND (straight ahead) exit......otherwise using the inner lane if I am exiting at the THIRD or FOURTH. That way I don't have to start worrying about someone riding the outer lane all the way around until after I pass the second exit.

Just when I think I have it all figured out I read these threads and get all confused again :icon_wink:

[Bettiboop]

Please provide a location of one like you're talking about. Neither my wife or I recall seeing any like that. I'd like to take a look see at it on Google Satellite!

I haven't run across one like this either, but it is very possible I haven't hit every RAB in TV since I am not a frog yet.

I'd like to know for sure if this is the case though so I can be sure and look out for this.

[memason]

Please provide a location of one like you're talking about. Neither my wife or I recall seeing any like that. I'd like to take a look see at it on Google Satellite!

Here's a snippet of the Google Maps Satellite view at Palmers CC. It will show that the left lane must merge into the right for the SINGLE lane exit at Palmers. This particular RAB, has 2 such exits. There are several such RAB's in TV.

At first, these feel confusing, but have to think about how traffic should actually flow... If everyone follows the rules, it will work, but in this RAB configurations, YIELD is the magic word.

[Bogie Shooter]

I haven't seen Bill Murry make his post yet!

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR1XZ1-xobcDhCB4L0ky2OJk1bFVOlJ0M85J7-OuLT-nObX5qlv-oNTnw

Great post........

[renielarson]

I haven't seen the new signs yet but here is one that is clear and concise. I still like the way I drive the roundabouts by being in the right lane only if I am taking the first exit. Otherwise, I stay in the left lane to go straight or taking the 3rd exit. If everyone did this no one would ever get t-boned.

1812

[skyguy79]

Tell me if I'm right or wrong. When I drive the roundabouts I use the outer lane ONLY if I'm making the FIRST right hand turn I can make. Otherwise, I drive the inner lane and make subsequent right turns from there. Is this correct?

Here's a snippet of the Google Maps Satellite view at Palmers CC. It will show that the left lane must merge into the right for the SINGLE lane exit at Palmers. This particular RAB, has 2 such exits. There are several such RAB's in TV.

At first, these feel confusing, but have to think about how traffic should actually flow... If everyone follows the rules, it will work, but in this RAB configurations, YIELD is the magic word.I believe I understand what you're saying... if you're coming from Lake Miona Rd and going straight through the RAB to Palmer, you need to immediately move into the inner circle then merge back to the outer circle in order to enter Palmer. (Same thing from Palmer to Lk. Miona Rd) BUT... this situation is not part of the original question (quoted above) that I was addressing.

The only reason I answered "wrong" to flipflopz's question was because of the usage of the term "only" and "Otherwise," where it excluded that you can normally proceed beyond the first exit and on to the second exit* in the outer lane or in other words proceeding straight which can be executed in not only the inner lane, but also in the outer lane. (I'm beginning to feel like I'm talking about belly buttons - innees and outies)

I do appreciate the comments I've received even if I feel they were unrelated, and thats because I think it improved my understand the RAB's and their usages and if that helped anyone else and made the RAB's safer for all of us, that's a good thing!

* When doing a final edit of this line, it dawned to me where FMF Doc's response may have been coming from. I just didn't have enough information to have comprehended it... not saying that I still would have.

[Bogie Shooter]

I haven't seen the new signs yet but here is one that is clear and concise. I still like the way I drive the roundabouts by being in the right lane only if I am taking the first exit. Otherwise, I stay in the left lane to go straight or taking the 3rd exit. If everyone did this no one would ever get t-boned.

1812

Can it be any simpler than this sign?? Duh!

[skyguy79]

I haven't seen the new signs yet but here is one that is clear and concise. I still like the way I drive the roundabouts by being in the right lane only if I am taking the first exit. Otherwise, I stay in the left lane to go straight or taking the 3rd exit. If everyone did this no one would ever get t-boned.

1812 CLICK HERE (http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27%2fPdfUpload%2fImproved+signa ge+at+roundabouts.pdf%27&ql=standard) to see a pdf representation of the sign. Seems a little lacking, but they're probably trying to keep it as simple as possible

BTW & IMHO, I don't necessarily agree with you that the left/inner lane is the safest to go straight or to the 2nd exit:

Using the right/outer lane gives you the control of your vehicle and safety when entering the RAB and approaching the second exit where you're about to make your exit to continue straight.

However if you use the left/inner lane, even though you are properly doing so, you don't have control of any vehicle entering from your right as you are about to make your exit from the RAB leaving you vulnerable to the inappropriate entrance of the other vehicle and risk getting "t-boned" as you cross the outer lane on your exit.

You will notice that I did say "necessarily." You could get t-boned in either situation, but the other driver entering on your right is more likely to yield because of the more obvious presence and intentions of your position than they would be if they saw the open lane (outer) and misjudged your position or intent to exit from the inner lane.

[skyguy79]

Can it be any simpler than this sign?? Duh!:agree: I agree

[renielarson]

Thank you Skyguy for the pic of the new roundabout signs. The sign is self explanatory so hopefully everyone will adhere to them...but I'm not going to hold my breath!

[Lou and Carolyn C.]

CLICK HERE (http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27%2fPdfUpload%2fImproved+signa ge+at+roundabouts.pdf%27&ql=standard) to see a pdf representation of the sign. Seems a little lacking, but they're probably trying to keep it as simple as possible

BTW & IMHO, I don't necessarily agree with you that the left/inner lane is the safest to go straight or to the 2nd exit:

Using the right/outer lane gives you the control of your vehicle and safety when entering the RAB and approaching the second exit where you're about to make your exit to continue straight.

However if you use the left/inner lane, even though you are properly doing so, you don't have control of any vehicle entering from your right as you are about to make your exit from the RAB leaving you vulnerable to the inappropriate entrance of the other vehicle and risk getting "t-boned" as you cross the outer lane on your exit.

You will notice that I did say "necessarily." You could get t-boned in either situation, but the other driver entering on your right is more likely to yield because of the more obvious presence and intentions of your position than they would be if they saw the open lane (outer) and misjudged your position or intent to exit from the inner lane.

I agree with this assessment, this happened to us once, as we were in the left lane entering the RAB and was continuing straight on Buena Vista (BV) at one of the many RABs on BV and the vehicle in the right lane (approx. 1 car length ahead of us) kept going in the outer (right) lane in front of us, which if we were not on our guard we would have collided t-boning said vehicle!

[Mikeod]

CLICK HERE (http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27%2fPdfUpload%2fImproved+signa ge+at+roundabouts.pdf%27&ql=standard) to see a pdf representation of the sign. Seems a little lacking, but they're probably trying to keep it as simple as possible


Skyguy,
The signs I have seen around the RAB (I like that abbreviation since I get tired of typing the whole name!) at Morse and Stillwater look better than that, and, to me, are more clear about lane use.

[NANCY58]

Sure hope people pay attention to them!!

[Happinow]

Geez, we went around about five round a bouts tonight about 8:30 pm in the pouring rain and had no trouble navigating them. We we've took up both lanes while navigating them! :1rotfl::1rotfl:

[tadpoleKM]

Maybe I just don't get it but I've always thought they should make it one lane - ive been cut off way too many times by the guy trying to get out of the left lane to make his turn.

[skyguy79]

Maybe I just don't get it but I've always thought they should make it one lane - ive been cut off way too many times by the guy trying to get out of the left lane to make his turn.You apparently now get it and should do well with the RAB's in the future. You are now officially graduated from a tadpole to a frog or if not yet a permanent resident in TV, a frog-in-training!
:a040:

[skyking]

I read somewhere that if you are in the right lane and bypass an exit you must be careful that the car in your left lane isn't exiting at the next exit. If he does and you broadside him, you will be at fault. I think that was in the paper last week. It's worth checking out. Everyone, please be careful. A few seconds may be the difference between ...........

That is correct. The inside lane has priority and the outside lane must yield. If there is an accident the driver in the outside lane is at fault.

[downeaster]

CLICK HERE (http://www.districtgov.org/PdfView/PdfView.aspx?path=%27%2fPdfUpload%2fImproved+signa ge+at+roundabouts.pdf%27&ql=standard) to see a pdf representation of the sign. Seems a little lacking, but they're probably trying to keep it as simple as possible

BTW & IMHO, I don't necessarily agree with you that the left/inner lane is the safest to go straight or to the 2nd exit:

Using the right/outer lane gives you the control of your vehicle and safety when entering the RAB and approaching the second exit where you're about to make your exit to continue straight.

However if you use the left/inner lane, even though you are properly doing so, you don't have control of any vehicle entering from your right as you are about to make your exit from the RAB leaving you vulnerable to the inappropriate entrance of the other vehicle and risk getting "t-boned" as you cross the outer lane on your exit.

You will notice that I did say "necessarily." You could get t-boned in either situation, but the other driver entering on your right is more likely to yield because of the more obvious presence and intentions of your position than they would be if they saw the open lane (outer) and misjudged your position or intent to exit from the inner lane.

Well said, skyguy. If going straight there are two choices but choosing the right lane is the wisest. Getting t-boned is no day at the beach even if the other guy is at fault.

[Bogie Shooter]

82, now 83 post and counting. Anybody want to bet on the over under number?

[Barefoot]

Geez, we went around about five round a bouts tonight about 8:30 pm in the pouring rain and had no trouble navigating them. We we've took up both lanes while navigating them! :1rotfl::1rotfl:

Happi, I realize you're joking, but this is a popular way of navigating the roundabouts. :duck: Following the rules doesn't seem to work that well since most people ignore the rules and do their own thing. My husband actually met a woman going the wrong way in a car in a roundabout, true story. :ohdear:

[ajbrown]

My husband actually met a woman going the wrong way in a car in a roundabout, true story. :ohdear:

Likely British Frogs

[George Bieniaszek]

Obviously, the safest way to survive in a roundabout is to enter it with no car near you in the left lane. It just doesn't make sense that the car in the left lane is able to make a right turn by changing lanes and cutting in front of a car in the right lane (more than likely without signaling to warn others) and not be at fault if there is an accident.

[Mikeod]

Obviously, the safest way to survive in a roundabout is to enter it with no car near you in the left lane. It just doesn't make sense that the car in the left lane is able to make a right turn by changing lanes and cutting in front of a car in the right lane (more than likely without signaling to warn others) and not be at fault if there is an accident.
The only way that should happen is if the car in the right/outside lane is continuing past the second exit(straight through the roundabout) which is a no-no, or if another car has entered the roundabout unsafely from the right by failing to yield to vehicles already in the RAB, thus cutting off the car making the legal exit at the third exit. A car in the left lane has only two choices, second exit (straight through) or third exit. The left lane cannot take the first exit (right turn).

But I agree the safest way to navigate the RAB is with no other car beside you. Unfortunately, at this time of year, that does not happen often. Otherwise you have to be prepared for the other driver to either not know or to ignore the rules.

[skyguy79]

Likely British Frogs
Naw, more likely British snow flakes or flakey snow flakes in the case of the the woman going clockwise in the RAB!
Obviously, the safest way to survive in a roundabout is to enter it with no car near you in the left lane. It just doesn't make sense that the car in the left lane is able to make a right in turn by changing lanes and cutting in front of a car in the right lane (more than likely without signaling to warn others) and not be at fault if there is an accident.The first part of your post is correct. As for the rest of it, it probably doesn't make sense because it doesn't follow logical to those of us that are not accustomed to RAB's or haven't experienced them before. But please don't ever be the one in the right lane that hits another vehicle that's making a right turn. You'll in all likelyhood find out who gets the UTT... you. and unless your insurance is no fault, you could potentially have a problem there too!

[buzzy]

...

[George Bieniaszek]

82, now 83 post and counting. Anybody want to bet on the over under number?
Bogie -- I'm betting over :icon_wink:

Here's one where both cars are doing things right but will be in a crash!

Picture the RAB with North, south, east and west exits.

Car #1 enters the RAB from the South entrance in the left lane with intentions of making a left turn, exiting west.

Car #2 enters the RAB shortl after from the North entrance in the right lane with intentions of going straight thru, exiting south and is driving along side car #1.

Both cars approach the West exit and CRASH!!!

Car #1 wanted to exit and car #2 wanted to continue straight thru.

Who would be the "At Fault" vehicle? Guess this is something for the Sheriff's office to sort out.

[NJblue]

Here's one where both cars are doing things right but will be in a crash!

Picture the RAB with North, south, east and west exits.

Car #1 enters the RAB from the South entrance in the left lane with intentions of making a left turn, exiting west.

Car #2 enters the RAB shortl after from the North entrance in the right lane with intentions of going straight thru, exiting south and is driving along side car #1.

Both cars approach the West exit and CRASH!!!

Car #1 wanted to exit and car #2 wanted to continue straight thru.

Who would be the "At Fault" vehicle? Guess this is something for the Sheriff's office to sort out.



In your scenario, the only way for the second car to be alongside the first car is if the second car did not properly yield to the first car as it came around in front of him. He should not enter the circle until the car already in the circle has passed by him. So, the fault would be the second car.

[happyinthevillages]

When you come in to a roundabout. You must yield to on coming in to traffic. Don't just run in and get hit head on.:boom:
:boom::boom:

[skyguy79]

Bogie -- I'm betting over :icon_wink:

Here's one where both cars are doing things right but will be in a crash!

Picture the RAB with North, south, east and west exits.

Car #1 enters the RAB from the South entrance in the left lane with intentions of making a left turn, exiting west.

Car #2 enters the RAB shortl after from the North entrance in the right lane with intentions of going straight thru, exiting south and is driving along side car #1.

Both cars approach the West exit and CRASH!!!

Car #1 wanted to exit and car #2 wanted to continue straight thru.

Who would be the "At Fault" vehicle? Guess this is something for the Sheriff's office to sort out.If car 2 entering the RAB can see car 1 coming around the circle (or within a reasonably close distance) in the inside lane, then car 2 is responsible for yealding the right of way to car 1.

If car 1 on the inside lane is about to exit and has to brake for, or even come close to car 2 on the outer lane, accident or not, a law enforcement officer who sees car 2's failure to yeald the right of way to car 1 could issue a UTT (Uniform Traffic Ticket) to the driver of car 2.

[Mikeod]

In your scenario, the only way for the second car to be alongside the first car is if the second car did not properly yield to the first car as it came around in front of him. He should not enter the circle until the car already in the circle has passed by him. So, the fault would be the second car.
Yep.

[damily]

Not yielding to traffic and makin a right turn from the left lane is stupid!


.
Look at the arrows on the pavement! The right lane should ALWAYS exit and NEVER go through. Now look at the arrows in the left lane. They can exit OR remain in circle. Right lane does not remain in circle! How's your left panel or are you the one who does the Mr Magoo driving test and everyone else has to watch out for you?

[chuckinca]

Stupid is as Stupid does.


.

[Mikeod]

Look at the arrows on the pavement! The right lane should ALWAYS exit and NEVER go through. Now look at the arrows in the left lane. They can exit OR remain in circle. Right lane does not remain in circle! How's your left panel or are you the one who does the Mr Magoo driving test and everyone else has to watch out for you?

The arrows that apply are the ones BEFORE the RAB, not the ones in it. They show the right lane can either turn right at the first exit or continue through to the second exit.

I feel the last sentence in your post was uncalled for. If you want to make a point, fine, but put-downs don't enhance your position.

[Happinow]

I can't believe I'm saying this but the round a bouts aren't that difficult to navigate IF you stay in your lane, get in the proper lane, yield and don't suddenly change your mind and cut the car on the side of you off to switch lanes at the last second.

[cappyjon431]

I can't believe I'm saying this but the round a bouts aren't that difficult to navigate IF you stay in your lane, get in the proper lane, yield and don't suddenly change your mind and cut the car on the side of you off to switch lanes at the last second.

:coolsmiley:As with anything in life, practice makes perfect.

[ilovetv]

The most logical solution of the roundabout issues would be to make them 1 lane and everyone would have to merge into 1 lane before entering them. That way, there would be no issues with people making right turns from the left lane or left turns from the right lane.

Oh, this sensible solution that's the way roundabouts are in most other states....has been mentioned so many times and nobody seems to care. Apparently a certain number of people have to be killed first.

[ilovetv]

About the new signs:

The drawings of which lane is to be used for which exits or continuing straight are well drawn and are good, I think. HOWEVER......

Have you noticed that the new signs are so close to the roundabout entrance (only about 2 car lengths before it) that there is NO TIME to change lanes if you're in the wrong one!

The sign on northbound Morse Boulevard and O'Dell (Entrance to Mallory Hill) is a prime example. Once you get to the sign and see that you should be in the left lane and you're in the right one, there is no time to change lanes to make a left turn.

IMHO I think the signs should be set back farther in advance of entering the rab, so you have time to change lanes to get into the proper one. The purpose of having them there gets defeated by being too close to be able to choose the other lane.

Yes, once you've driven it a few times, you're aware, but this place is full of new people who come from states that have SINGLE-lane rabs.

[JoeC1947]

lovetv

I agree. Maybe even painting the arrows on the pavement would help even more.

[memason]

Oh, this sensible solution that's the way roundabouts are in most other states....has been mentioned so many times and nobody seems to care. Apparently a certain number of people have to be killed first.

Are you kidding me???? People killed??? ...at 20mph ???

If the RAB's were converted to one lane with merges before, can you image the backup of traffic in TV?

Learn to drive!

Just sayin'

[getdul981]

Are you kidding me???? People killed??? ...at 20mph ???

If the RAB's were converted to one lane with merges before, can you image the backup of traffic in TV?

Learn to drive!

Just sayin'

:agree:

[PaPaLarry]

Seems like the roundabouts spark a lot of attention!!!!! Maybe we need tunnel exits to each gate, like the golf carts have?? hehehehe So many people in a hurry to get no where!! I think everyone is right with their statements. In the winter months, seems like more accidents, or blowing of the horns, (sometimes the educated finger) but it's still going to happen. All we can do is be cautious, and hope the other driver is also. Maybe some of the new signs will help. I think they should have cartoons on front of paper each day, for the do's and dont's. And do it over and over and over again!! Let's all stick around a little longer and enjoy ourselves!!:bigbow:

[EdV]

Throwing more signs with confusing circles and arrows going every which way, at 80,000 powder heads is only adding to the confusion.

And those that think that single lane roundabouts will create big backups should consider this. If I’m waiting in the right lane to enter a roundabout intending to take the first exit and there is a vehicle coming around the bend in the inner lane, I must wait until it passes to enter (even if that vehicle would be continuing on in the roundabout). So where’s the big benefit of the two lanes.

Single lane roundabouts like this one (http://www.springfield-or.gov/Pubworks/EngineeringTransportation/documents/SinglelanenewBrochure.pdf) should have been built here from the get go considering the demographics of TV which includes reflex diminished seniors, out of state snow birds, first time previewers, and right hand challenged Brits.

[Bogie Shooter]

Throwing more signs with confusing circles and arrows going every which way, at 80,000 powder heads is only adding to the confusion.

And those that think that single lane roundabouts will create big backups should consider this. If I’m waiting in the right lane to enter a roundabout intending to take the first exit and there is a vehicle coming around the bend in the inner lane, I must wait until it passes to enter (even if that vehicle would be continuing on in the roundabout). So where’s the big benefit of the two lanes.

Single lane roundabouts like this one (http://www.springfield-or.gov/Pubworks/EngineeringTransportation/documents/SinglelanenewBrochure.pdf) should have been built here from the get go considering the demographics of TV which includes reflex diminished seniors, out of state snow birds, first time previewers, and right hand challenged Brits.

Ed, normally I respect your opinions and knowledge about TV. However, calling everyone of the 80,000 villagers powder heads doesn't set well with me.
Maybe its just the envious powder heads that come to TV from Stonecrest that cause all the trouble in the roundabouts. (See thats not nice)

[Mikeod]

Folks, get over it. The roundabouts are two lanes. Are going to be two lanes. It was a condition of approving the density of TV. One lane roundabouts aren't going to happen. The two lane roundabouts are safe if people would only educate themselves about their use and not just assume they KNOW how to do it. The vast majority of drivers navigate them just fine. It's those who don't know or don't care that create problems.

I agree the placement of the new signs could be improved by moving them a bit farther from the actual roundabout.

[buzzy]

How about a decal for the center of the steering wheel ?????????

[cappyjon431]

Folks, get over it. The roundabouts are two lanes. Are going to be two lanes. It was a condition of approving the density of TV. One lane roundabouts aren't going to happen. The two lane roundabouts are safe if people would only educate themselves about their use and not just assume they KNOW how to do it. The vast majority of drivers navigate them just fine. It's those who don't know or don't care that create problems.

I agree the placement of the new signs could be improved by moving them a bit farther from the actual roundabout.

As always, Mike, you are the voice of reason. I've only been in TV six months, but I honestly don't know what the big deal is about the roundabouts. Sure there are accidents, but there are accidents in TV in non-roundabout locations and there are accidents in every community I have ever lived in. I just don't understand all the fuss but I attribute it to simply being something that many are not used to from whereever they came previously. Either get used to them or find alternate routes to get to your destination. The two lane roundabouts are not going anywhere.

[mrdills]

Got a Idea, for all those that don't want to accept the way you drive around the roundabouts you can drive your golf cart and that way it will be less traffic in the roundabouts. Less accidents, Problem Solved................... Why does everyone want to recreated the wheel ?????

[skyguy79]

As always, Mike, you are the voice of reason. I've only been in TV six months, but I honestly don't know what the big deal is about the roundabouts. Sure there are accidents, but there are accidents in TV in non-roundabout locations and there are accidents in every community I have ever lived in. I just don't understand all the fuss but I attribute it to simply being something that many are not used to from whereever they came previously. Either get used to them or find alternate routes to get to your destination. The two lane roundabouts are not going anywhere.http://forums.voiceofthepublic.com/smf2/Smileys/default/I-Agree.gif

If the two lane RB's were one lane RB's and there were still accidents, would we be calling for half lane RB's? I know that's a rediculous statement, but I made it just to demonstrate just how far outside of the logic box we can stretch things sometimes, and if that were widely practiced, there could very well be no TV today! If we had three lane RAB's, would the call would be for two lanes ; four lanes to three; five lanes to four, etc.? Personally, I feel that my glass is half full on this and I'm just happy we don't have RAB's like this one here in TV:

http://carinsurance.arrivealive.co.za/wp-content/uploads/car-blog-images1.jpg

[ilovetv]

Tell me if I'm right or wrong. When I drive the roundabouts I use the outer lane ONLY if I'm making the FIRST right hand turn I can make. Otherwise, I drive the inner lane and make subsequent right turns from there. Is this correct?

The disaster that can happen from doing what is legal and logical in your scenario is that if you're going to continue straight using the inner (left) lane, at 180 degrees around when you correctly "exit" the rab to go straight, some moron in the right lane decides to go left from that right lane while he's beside you as you are "exiting" the rab. T-Bone city for you.

One of the keys is to never be beside another driver in the circle if possible. And don't enter the rab if anyone is coming on your far left----ya never know WHAT they're going to do, right or wrong.

[coffeebean]

A matter of timing - the inside lane car should lag behind outside lane car or the outside lane car shouldn't enter the round n round until the inside line car has passed.


.

I went round 'n round (no pun intended) with this a couple of years ago on this forum. I feel the same as you do, chuckinca and I had to wear a shield for all the bashing I received.

[EdV]

Ed, normally I respect your opinions and knowledge about TV. However, calling everyone of the 80,000 villagers powder heads doesn't set well with me.
Maybe its just the envious powder heads that come to TV from Stonecrest that cause all the trouble in the roundabouts. (See thats not nice)

Ahh yes, the mythical envious Stonecrest residents.

Actually, I've been a powder head most of my life since my hair started turning grey when I was 15. My remark was just meant to be a humerous reference to the demographic makeup of this area.

Speaking of which, did you know that referring to a bathroom as the powder room is derived from the fact that in colonial times, it was used to freshen up the powder on their wigs.

[coffeebean]

They really are simple to use and if the rules are followed work extremely well.

They work 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.

This is the one and only rule that truly makes TV round a bouts work without mishap.

[fjsimone]

Well said. The number of times I have almost been hit by
non yielding drivers into rab and whipped lash turning
cars by inner drivers is significant. U must drive and
think defensive. FYI was turning onto 466A by new construction.
Car on wrong side going east. Luckily great truck driver with oversized load stopped
and blocked lane. Truck had to honk, flash lights and hand signal to get
driver into correct lane. Could have been a 45mph head on.
It was @1pm.

[EdV]

Folks, get over it. The roundabouts are two lanes. Are going to be two lanes...

Some of us won't get over it because we prefer to look at the way things should be and say "why not".

The two lane roundabouts are safe if people would only educate themselves about their use.....

But they won't, so the two lane roundabouts will remain unsafe.

....The vast majority of drivers navigate them just fine...

Actually quite the opposite. Go to any roundabout and count the number of drivers who enter when both lanes are NOT free. I'd venture to guess it's the majority of drivers.

[JoeC1947]

IMHO....It's not the roundabout that's dangerous, it's the people that drive in them (yes, just like a gun). It's a combination of people that don't care, don't remember, are in a hurry, feel entitled or, think they are doing it right. How many people don't stop at stop signs or speed? A stop sign or speed limit sign and what they mean couldn't be simpler. People understand them but still....

The new signs are very good and when the people that care, and thought that they were doing it right before but weren't, see the signs I think it will sink in with most of them eventually. As for the ones that, don't remember, are in a hurry or feel entitled to do as they please.......well, nothing will change their minds or the way the negotiate roundabouts. In the mix of drivers we have here, there is no perfect solution.

[ajbrown]

At the risk of jinxing myself. My feeling in a roundabout is the same as what I tell ‘newer’ golfers. You cannot hit me. I do not care how you drive in the roundabout, you cannot hit me. (lets rule out ramming me in the rear end :icon_wink:)

Same as on a golf course playing with ‘newer’ golfers. A ‘newer’ golfer will often look up and say watch out, I do not know where this is going to which I say give it a rip , you cannot hit me.

If you position yourself correctly and are aware of your surroundings no one can hit you.

Good luck.

PS. BogieShooter, I think we can get this thread over 200 posts
PS2. I hope the outside world does not judge us by these roundabout threads :duck:

[cappyjon431]

Some of us won't get over it because we prefer to look at the way things should be and say "why not".

When you write "the way things should be" it certainly sounds like personal opinion to me (and you are entitled to your opinion). It is my personal opinion that the roundabouts are just fine. Have I seen people enter them who are clueless? Of course, but I've also seen people trying to drive their cars on multi-modal paths. I certainly wouldn't suggest to get rid of the paths.



But they won't, so the two lane roundabouts will remain unsafe..

Again I think this is personal opinion. Thousands and thousands (probably tens of thousands) of drivers use these roundabouts every day with very few incidents. Occasionally there are accidents--just like any other place I have ever lived.

Actually quite the opposite. Go to any roundabout and count the number of drivers who enter when both lanes are NOT free. I'd venture to guess it's the majority of drivers.

You might guess so, but that is only a guess based on anecdotal evidence that you have observed personally. That has not been my personal experience. I have certainly seen some boneheaded moves in the roundabouts, but I've also seen them on the turnpike, at the mail station, and in the Walmart parking lot. I have yet to see nay concrete evidence that the majority of drivers can't handle a simple roundabout.

I understand--you don't like the roundabouts and you don't think they are safe. I respect your opinion, but I respectfully disagree. I haven't been in TV very long, but I have driven on the streets here EVERYDAY for the last six months and I still fail to see what all the fuss is about.

[Mikeod]

Some of us won't get over it because we prefer to look at the way things should be and say "why not".



But they won't, so the two lane roundabouts will remain unsafe.



Actually quite the opposite. Go to any roundabout and count the number of drivers who enter when both lanes are NOT free. I'd venture to guess it's the majority of drivers.

C'mon Ed. The two lane roundabouts are required by Sumter County. Do you really think they are going to change them because some residents feel they are unsafe? Where are the statistics that show they are "unsafe". Do they require some attention from drivers when entering and using them? Sure, but so do many regular intersections. Try getting onto 301 from 472, especially if trying to go south on 301. That certainly requires some attention.

And your last statement is definitely hyperbole. No way the "majority" of drivers enter when both lanes are not free. I travel Morse daily and have to use the roundabout at Morse and Stillwater several times each day. Each time I use the inner lane because I am going 3/4 around to enter Stillwater. Rarely has anyone entered on the outside lane beside me.

The most common error in the roundabouts, by far IMO, is the person who continues in the outside lane beyond the second exit. All it takes is recognition that can happen, and, with a little defensive driving, the potential for an accident is eliminated.

[Russ_Boston]

And your last statement is definitely hyperbole. No way the "majority" of drivers enter when both lanes are not free.

Agree. I have seen some enter when only one lane is free and I will honk my horn at them for a long time to let them think about what they did and maybe they get the point.


The most common error in the roundabouts, by far IMO, is the person who continues in the outside lane beyond the second exit.

This is where you have to be real diligent. I have had to go 'with' them to avoid being hit a few times. But I always watch a car that is outside of me to see where they are going even if they are not supposed to.


Recent true story: I was talking with a gentleman who said he was fined $147 for being in an accident in the roundabout even though he thought he was not at fault. I asked how it happened and he started by saying "I was entering the roundabout and I had a good car length lead on the person already in the roundabout"!!!!!

I said that the roundabout needed to be completely clear of traffic in your direction and he argued for 10 minutes saying that I was wrong. He didn't get it and probably never will. So be careful.

[Bogie Shooter]

And the beat goes on.................

[Graytop]

There is personal opinion & personal interpretation of the law,....and then there is the officers' interpretation and enforcement of the law. :)

I remember that old song we do in our Sixties band,...."I Fought The Law",....what's the next line???:)

This thread really can hit 200!

[Bogie Shooter]

I did a search on roundabouts, only threads with roundabouts in the title.
Number of posts for each thread:
89
51
115
184
32
83
22
14
51
63
63
Let the silliness continue..................

[billethkid]

seems to me the problem is very simple. Some need to learn that right of way is theirs to give....NOT TAKE!!!

I hate to say it but there is a certain stubbornness that comes with aging....like it is my way whether you like it or not.

And I shan't address those behind the wheel that are way past tearing up their license.

Based on a significant majority, the traffic circles are fine. Let the minority grumble for a change!!!!!!!

btk

[Bogie Shooter]

seems to me the problem is very simple. Some need to learn that right of way is theirs to give....NOT TAKE!!!

I hate to say it but there is a certain stubbornness that comes with aging....like it is my way whether you like it or not.

And I shan't address those behind the wheel that are way past tearing up their license.

Based on a significant majority, the traffic circles are fine. Let the minority grumble for a change!!!!!!!btk

I agree.

[EdV]

Take a look at this site (http://www.strans.org/roundabouts.html) regarding roundabouts if you think I'm alone and misguided on this subject.

More to follow.

[Bogie Shooter]

Do we really need more??

[angiefox10]

Do we really need more??


No... but of course there will be.... hmmmm I wonder if it will catch up with the dog poop saga.... :popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[cappyjon431]

Take a look at this site (http://www.strans.org/roundabouts.html) regarding roundabouts if you think I'm alone and misguided on this subject.

More to follow.

Interesting that the article starts off with: "A roundabout is a type of circular intersection. Compared to signals, roundabouts tend to move traffic more efficiently, cut down on pollution, reduce the number and severity of accidents, last longer, cost less, and do not rely on electricity for operation.

A major benefit to roundabouts is that- by increasing intersection capacity- they prevent the need to widen the entire section of street. In other words, a two-lane road with roundbouts is often more efficient than a four-lane road with a traffic signals (because the traffic keeps flowing).

A study of 24 intersections in the United States that have been changed to roundabout showed an 89% reduction in fatalities and serious injury. The crashes in a roundabout tend to be 'fender benders' compared to the much more severe 'T-bone' crash typical at a signalized intersection."

I do understand that MIST advocates single lane roundabouts (never providing any data why they are superior), but as it has been repeated ad nauseum, the counties are not going to change from double to single lane roundabouts, so it is best for all concerned to learn how to navigate safely with what we have. If folks aren't up for that "challenge," then they should simply plan their routes to avoid the roundabouts or take a golf cart. Pretty simple stuff here.

[EdV]

Some of you are misunderstanding me. I never said that multilane RABs were not the more efficient. And I don’t believe that they will be changed. I’m simply responding to the naïve notion that all will be well if everyone will simply learn and obey the rules. It’s sad but true that many won’t and will continue to cause accidents. And in the end, nothing can or will be done about it.

I never said that they were less safe than straight intersection. I said they were inherently less safe than single lane ROBs because of the undeniable fact that they introduce the possibility of two vehicles crossing each other’s paths which cannot be done with single lane RABs

If the some of you want to continue to believe that the majority of the drivers know and obey the ROB rules so be it But since a picture is worth a thousand words, how much are 19 of them worth? I just went down to the El Camino/Morse roundabout and in the course of 7 minutes snapped these 19 drivers entering the roundabout with other vehicles already approaching.

Here’s a link to the photos (https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/album.php?albumid=544). See for yourself.

[Bogie Shooter]

Ed
I am beginning to think you have way too much time on your hands.

[cappyjon431]

Some of you are misunderstanding me. I never said that multilane ROBs were not the more efficient. And I don’t believe that they will be changed. I’m simply responding to the naïve notion that all will be well if everyone will simply learn and obey the rules. It’s sad but true that many won’t and will continue to cause accidents. And in the end, nothing can or will be done about it..

There is no doubt that it is naive to think that all will be well if everyone learned and obeyed the rules. There will still be accidents--that is why they are called accidents. But the same holds true with every other type of driving scenario: People know not to speed but they do it anyway, sometimes ending tragically. People know not to run red lights or stop signs, but it happens from time to time, often with terrible results. People know to look in their rearview mirrors before backing out of a parking space, but sometimes they forget/ignore this and it results in accidents (this one happened to me today). Learning the rules and obeying them simply minimizes the risk--but it will never eliminate accidents (even with single lane roundabouts!).

I never said that they were less safe than straight intersection. I said they were inherently less safe than single lane ROBs because of the undeniable fact that they introduce the possibility of two vehicles crossing each other’s paths which cannot be done with single lane ROBs..

I think the question that really needs to be asked is: How much safer would they be? A secondary question would be: Would the increase in safety offset the benefits of increased traffic flow that two lane roundabouts provide? I think a legitimate parallel argument could be made that we could dramatically decrease speed related deaths on the highways if we reduced the speed limits. Yes, it absolutely would be safer (how much is questionable), but would it be worth the slowdowns on all of the highways? Traffic would back up, it would take much longer to commute, longer for products to get to market, etc.

If the some of you want to continue to believe that the majority of the drivers know and obey the ROB rules so be it But since a picture is worth a thousand words, how much are 19 of them worth? I just went down to the El Camino/Morse roundabout and in the course of 7 minutes snapped these 19 drivers entering the roundabout with other vehicles already approaching.

Here’s a link to the photos (https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/album.php?albumid=544). See for yourself.

I like that you actually went out and took the time to research this yourself, and I certainly wouldn't question what you saw. My question is: In this seven minutes of observation detailing 19 drivers entering the roundabouts "unsafely", how many accidents did you witness? Probably the same number that you would have witnessed if they had been single lane roundabouts.

Ed, I truly respect your passion for the subject and I guess we'll have to agree to disagree. While others appear to be bored with this topic, I enjoy the interchange of ideas. Perhaps because I am relatively new to TV and TOTV I am not bored with the discussion and i don't care if the thread count goes to 600 posts.

[EdV]

Good points.

One of the reasons for taking the photos was to exercise my camera so it would be ready for me at the TOTV Crispers extravaganza. But more importantly it was a response to those that suggested I was wrong about how often the basic roundabout rules are broken.

But after all is said and done by all of us, the unfortunate conclusion is that the roundabouts are what they are and are unlikely to be changed, just like the people that use them.

[coffeebean]

:ohdear:I understand the basic concept with regards to the Roundabout (RAB), however one thing does confuse me and I know I’ll be chastised by those who have “COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING” OF THE RAB, but here goes:

Say I’m approaching a RAB in the left lane and I know I will be exiting at the 3rd exit into a residential gate where there are two lanes, one for visitors and the other for residents, well being a resident I may choose to use the residence side of the gate, Right?? So if I’m exiting from the inside RAB lane toward the gate, which would be the left hand lane entering through the visitors side, here is the problem for me, as I would need to switch lanes and get in the right hand (residents side) in order to use my residence pass, I’m always nervous switching over to the right hand lane fearing that I’m going to get hit by another vehicle on my right. Signed Nervous Nelly!! :faint:


EXACTLY how I feel. I never approach any gate in the left lane because I NEED to be in the right lane to go through the resident entry.

[coffeebean]

Congratulations! In this example, you navigated the RAB properly :coolsmiley:. If you want to go through the resident gate, merge over to the right lane, after you've cleared the RAB.

However, you realize that you can go through either gate, right? Your gate pass works on either of the gates, so if you can't merge to the right, just use the left gate. In fact, it's sometimes faster to go through the left gate at busy gates, like St. Charles at Miona Rec. Center.

Going through the visitor's side at a manned gate, do the gate attendants expect you to stop to speak to them? I always feel as though I should stop for them.

[chuckinca]

Using the visitor gate doesn't mean you can't still use all the amenities.

You don't have to have a discussion with the gate attendant either.

.

[Pturner]

Wow! A roundabout thread with only five posts! :D :faint:

Um... what the heck was I thinking? :ohdear:

[coffeebean]

I read somewhere that if you are in the right lane and bypass an exit you must be careful that the car in your left lane isn't exiting at the next exit. If he does and you broadside him, you will be at fault. I think that was in the paper last week. It's worth checking out. Everyone, please be careful. A few seconds may be the difference between ...........

I always make sure I stagger with other cars in the RAB. This way, the car in the left lane in the RAB with exit ahead of me, therefore I avoid an accident.

[FMF Doc]

Um... what the heck was I thinking? :ohdear:

:a20::a20:

[George Bieniaszek]

HA HA!! We are at over 140 posts regarding RAB's!!

Can we hit 200 posts???

[Pturner]

At the risk of sounding totally uninformed, I need to ask when you might need to" make a left hand turn" at any roundabout and when might you be able to "go straight through" at any roundabout. Since both of these sound impossible, it would seem that the right hand lane is the only one to be in????

Hi Kathy and Al,
As Memason has wisely stated, approach the RAB as if it worked the same way as any other intersection-- because it does.

So...


If you go 3/4 around the RAB, it's exactly the same as making a LEFT turn at any other type of intersection.
If you exit the RAB onto the same road from which you entered it, it is the same as "going straight through" the intersection.

CMANN's earlier post is also succinct and worth repeating:

easiest roundabout rules.

Vehicles in the roundabout have the right-of-way.

Drive single file in the roundabout, no passing allowed.

When approaching your exit, always use your turn signal to let other drivers know you intend to exit.

[NJblue]

I recognize that things are not likely to change. I also recognize that if drivers do what they are supposed to do, the RABs are fairly safe. Further, I believe that even if drivers don't do what they are supposed to do, if you drive very defensively in a RAB, you're probably going to be OK.

With that said, I'm not sure I'm in agreement with the county that stipulated that dual lane RABs were essential for proper traffic flow. Where I used to live there was a community college whose main entrance was of a semi-busy county road. For years a traffic light was used to control traffic at the intersection and for years the backups would be horrendous and there were many very serious accidents at that intersection. They finally replaced the light with a single lane RAB - end of problem. The traffic flow is significantly smoother and safer and the single lane handles traffic ten times worse than anything we ever see in TV.

[coffeebean]

... I just went down to the El Camino/Morse roundabout and in the course of 7 minutes snapped these 19 drivers entering the roundabout with other vehicles already approaching.


I see nothing wrong with many of the photos you have presented. RABs are busy most times with traffic constantly coming around. How in the world is anyone going to get anywhere if they wait for the RAB to be completely vacant of any cars??? There are many RAB that have buildings in the middle which block your view of a vehicle that is at your 180 degree entry point.

Just curious...how long does it take you to drive from 466A to 466 on Buena Vista or Morse??? I would venture it takes you much longer to drive those stretches of road than it does the majority of the drivers here in TV. You can sit an wait for a VERY long time for a totally empty RAB.

[coffeebean]

When approaching your exit, always use your turn signal to let other drivers know you intend to exit.

Unfortunately, most drivers don't use directionals when exiting RABs....not that I have noticed. I always assume any car in the RAB with me will be exiting at any time...therefore, I drive very defensively in the RABs.

[coffeebean]

I recognize that things are not likely to change. I also recognize that if drivers do what they are supposed to do, the RABs are fairly safe. Further, I believe that even if drivers don't do what they are supposed to do, if you drive very defensively in a RAB, you're probably going to be OK.

With that said, I'm not sure I'm in agreement with the county that stipulated that dual lane RABs were essential for proper traffic flow. Where I used to live there was a community college whose main entrance was of a semi-busy county road. For years a traffic light was used to control traffic at the intersection and for years the backups would be horrendous and there were many very serious accidents at that intersection. They finally replaced the light with a single lane RAB - end of problem. The traffic flow is significantly smoother and safer and the single lane handles traffic ten times worse than anything we ever see in TV.

Seriously...if we all waited for the RAB to be totally void of any of car (which is what another poster insists we must do) then that is essentially treating the RAB as having a single lane. Where is the benefit for traffic flow of having two lanes in the RABs?

[EdV]

Seriously...if we all waited for the RAB to be totally void of any of car (which is what another poster insists we must do) then that is essentially treating the RAB as having a single lane. Where is the benefit for traffic flow of having two lanes in the RABs?

Is that a collective groan I hear from the dual lane crowd?

[blessinn]

i think a bigger problem in roundabouts is people who do not seem to know the difference between Yield and Stop. Also, if you can't make a turn from your lane because of another car blocking you just circle around again... hardly a huge problem if you ask me.

[coffeebean]

Is that a collective groan I hear from the dual lane crowd?
No, I'm not groaning...just confused as to how I'm supposed to enter a RAB that is completely void of any cars. Maybe at 3AM it is possible to find a completely empty RAB but certainly not during the day.

[lightworker888]

I think the idea is to wait til there is sufficient time between your entering and the ones coming from the exit on the left or from around the RAB on the left. Because you are usually merging or coming from a stop, your speed will be less than those already in the RAB so you have to allow for that too. Yes, sometimes we have to wait for a break in the stream of cars, but as with a traffic light, there is always a break, at least when I've been down. I'll have to see if March means that my strategy doesn't work. I guess at first, I'll have to allow a bit more time to get to the different rec centers on time.

[applesoffh]

Moved here 1/23. We don't have roundabouts/traffic circles where we come from (that I know of) so this is all new to us. My husband follows directions as posted, and almost hit, on two different occasions, a guy on a bike and a car, both of which has crossed his path as he was getting out of the RAB and they were in the right lane (can you get the picture?). I don't like to drive in the first place, and these scare the hell out of me, quite frankly.

[Mikeod]

Moved here 1/23. We don't have roundabouts/traffic circles where we come from (that I know of) so this is all new to us. My husband follows directions as posted, and almost hit, on two different occasions, a guy on a bike and a car, both of which has crossed his path as he was getting out of the RAB and they were in the right lane (can you get the picture?). I don't like to drive in the first place, and these scare the hell out of me, quite frankly.

The hope of the county and residents is that the new signs will educate residents and visitors alike in the best/safest way to navigate the RABs. And things will get better and better. Thousands of cars drive these streets daily and it's not demolition derby out there.

However, from the posts you have read and your own experience, you can see there are some who just don't/won't get it. So, follow the rules, expect the other guy to not follow the rules, and drive defensively. You'll be fine.

[applesoffh]

Thank you...

[EdV]

In all modesty I consider myself somewhat of a roundabout connoisseur having endured one of the most diabolical roundabouts ever invented.

I posted this a year or two ago but it’s worth mentioning again. You see, back in the early 80’s I was assigned as project leader of a technology upgrade for a major UK retailer whose headquarters were based in Swindon UK. As such I spent a lot of time over there in the course of a year.

Swindon is most notable as the home of the infamous ‘Magic Roundabout’, a cluster of five roundabouts arranged around a contra-rotational hub which I had to traverse twice each day. Being a Yank, the whole ordeal was compounded by the Brits natty insistence on driving on the wrong side of the road.

This monster kept me up at night. Ladies and gentlemen, behold, the mother of all roundabouts (http://www.swindonweb.com/index.asp?m=8&s=115&ss=289)!

[ilovetv]

In all modesty I consider myself somewhat of a roundabout connoisseur having endured one of the most diabolical roundabouts ever invented.

I posted this a year or two ago but it’s worth mentioning again. You see, back in the early 80’s I was assigned as project leader of a technology upgrade for a major UK retailer whose headquarters were based in Swindon UK. As such I spent a lot of time over there in the course of a year.

Swindon is most notable as the home of the infamous ‘Magic Roundabout’, a cluster of five roundabouts arranged around a contra-rotational hub which I had to traverse twice each day. Being a Yank, the whole ordeal was compounded by the Brits natty insistence on driving on the wrong side of the road.

This monster kept me up at night. Ladies and gentlemen, behold, the mother of all roundabouts (http://www.swindonweb.com/index.asp?m=8&s=115&ss=289)!

I think I've hear that the term for that is a "clusterf____".

[lightworker888]

I can't even figure out the signs! Please explain. TV looks like kindergarten in comparison.



LW888

[Mikeod]

Ingenious, but scary. Yep, it makes these two lane RABs look like child's play. I though I'd seen a big RAB in Scotland where two motorways intersected at one RAB with two smaller highways also involved. And it was four lanes. But that one takes 1st prize.

[BobbyK]

We are in a Retirement Community why is everyone such a hurry,right or wrong or who thinks what SLOW DOWN you may not drive as good as use to.For everyone that are in a hurry all the time those red signs with the white letters mean STOP !!

[Pturner]

We are in a Retirement Community why is everyone such a hurry,right or wrong or who thinks what SLOW DOWN you may not drive as good as use to.For everyone that are in a hurry all the time those red signs with the white letters mean STOP !!

Just to clarify for newbies, RAB intersections don't have STOP signs.

[tghoul]

I had a friend who did his own survey last week. He was looking at cars traveling east on Stillwater approaching the Morse Blvd round about. In a 30 minute span he counted 27 cars in the right lane of the circle make a 3/4 turn to head north on Morse. He figured they wanted to be in the right lane of Morse so they could avoid the next round about. He didn't see any fender benders but there were a couple of close misses when cars in the left lane continued straight on Stillwater into the Village of Caroline.

[cappyjon431]

In all modesty I consider myself somewhat of a roundabout connoisseur having endured one of the most diabolical roundabouts ever invented.

I posted this a year or two ago but it’s worth mentioning again. You see, back in the early 80’s I was assigned as project leader of a technology upgrade for a major UK retailer whose headquarters were based in Swindon UK. As such I spent a lot of time over there in the course of a year.

Swindon is most notable as the home of the infamous ‘Magic Roundabout’, a cluster of five roundabouts arranged around a contra-rotational hub which I had to traverse twice each day. Being a Yank, the whole ordeal was compounded by the Brits natty insistence on driving on the wrong side of the road.

This monster kept me up at night. Ladies and gentlemen, behold, the mother of all roundabouts (http://www.swindonweb.com/index.asp?m=8&s=115&ss=289)!

Wow, that one gives me a headache just thinking about it. I grew up with a two lane circle only two blocks from my home, so that is probably why the TV roundabouts don't bother me.

This is what that one looks like:

De Soto Fountain · HistoryMiami (http://www.historymiami.org/research-miami/online-images/coral-gables-images/de-soto-fountain/)

"Only eight blocks long, DeSoto Boulevard connects the historic Biltmore Hotel with Biltmore Way, leading into downtown Coral Gables.
Bisecting this gently curving scenic road through the upscale residential area where the boulevards of De Soto and Granada intersect with Sevilla Avenue, a traffic circle plaza decorated with a majestic fountain is accented by colorful flowers and tall palms."

Makes me miss home thinking about it. My parents still live there (they say they are too young to live in TV:ohdear:).

[coffeebean]

I had a friend who did his own survey last week. He was looking at cars traveling east on Stillwater approaching the Morse Blvd round about. In a 30 minute span he counted 27 cars in the right lane of the circle make a 3/4 turn to head north on Morse. He figured they wanted to be in the right lane of Morse so they could avoid the next round about. He didn't see any fender benders but there were a couple of close misses when cars in the left lane continued straight on Stillwater into the Village of Caroline.

I tried a couple of times to use the inner lane of that RAB to make the left turn onto Morse from Stillwater. I felt it was so unsafe to have to get into the right lane so quickly in order to use the bypass to the next RAB at LSL.

[Mikeod]

I tried a couple of times to use the inner lane of that RAB to make the left turn onto Morse from Stillwater. I felt it was so unsafe to have to get into the right lane so quickly in order to use the bypass to the next RAB at LSL.
But if you feel you can't safely merge into the right lane to use the bypass, just continue to the RAB at LSL and continue on Morse. It is far more dangerous to stay in the outside lane of a RAB and go 3/4 around than to continue through the Morse RAB at LSL.

[PaPaLarry]

Instead of Roundabouts, use a cart on cart paths!! Still can reach anywhere!!!:gc:

[mrfixit]

In all modesty I consider myself somewhat of a roundabout connoisseur having endured one of the most diabolical roundabouts ever invented.
This monster kept me up at night. Ladies and gentlemen, behold,
the mother of all roundabouts (http://www.swindonweb.com/index.asp?m=8&s=115&ss=289)!

.........gotta do a little braggin' here.....

We went thru "THAT" roundabout just fine.
No problems whatsoever......

Thank God we were IN A CAB.

[Bettiboop]

.........gotta do a little braggin' here.....

We went thru "THAT" roundabout just fine.
No problems whatsoever......

Thank God we were IN A CAB.

:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Parker]

The two-lane roundabouts are confusing, because everyone uses them differently and feels strongly they are correct and can justify their actions. That, sadly, will never change no matter how many signs they post. It should be changed it to one lane, thus saving confusion over the 'proper' way to do it. In a community of aging folks, simpler is always better.

[cappyjon431]

The two-lane roundabouts are confusing, because everyone uses them differently and feels strongly they are correct and can justify their actions. That, sadly, will never change no matter how many signs they post. It should be changed it to one lane, thus saving confusion over the 'proper' way to do it. In a community of aging folks, simpler is always better.

They really aren't confusing. The large majority use them properly (following the pamphlet provided to new homeowners) and there are relatively few incidents. People sometimes make it out to be worse than it really is because they are "new" to the concept and a lot of people have a fear of the unknown. Once they get used to them they see it really isn't a big deal.

[chuckinca]

The two-lane roundabouts are confusing, because everyone uses them differently and feels strongly they are correct and can justify their actions. That, sadly, will never change no matter how many signs they post. It should be changed it to one lane, thus saving confusion over the 'proper' way to do it. In a community of aging folks, simpler is always better.


:agree::agree::agree:

(They Really are Confusing and Dangerous)

[Barefoot]

People sometimes make it out to be worse than it really is because they are "new" to the concept and a lot of people have a fear of the unknown. Once they get used to them they see it really isn't a big deal.

Cappyjon, it really is a big deal if you're driving correctly and get T-boned by someone who misunderstands the "new" concept. From the amount of inconsistencies posted on this thread, the only thing that is clear, is that there is a lot of confusion. Until the day that all drivers are on the "same page", IMHO, one-lane roundabouts would be safer. That won't happen tho, it would cause traffic to move too slowly.

[cappyjon431]

Cappyjon, it really is a big deal if you're driving correctly and get T-boned by someone who misunderstands the "new" concept. From the amount of inconsistencies posted on this thread, the only thing that is clear, is that there is a lot of confusion. Until the day that all drivers are on the "same page", IMHO, one-lane roundabouts would be safer. That won't happen tho, it would cause traffic to move too slowly.

Sorry Barefoot, but i respectfully disagree. Everytime someone posts about roundabouts we get threads that run 100-200 posts and it resolves nothing. We have two lane roundabouts and that will NOT change. That being the case, I suggest that everyone learn to use them properly OR avoid them by finding another route. I drive through the roundabouts on Buena Vista 5-6 times a day and have for the last six months without even coming close to an incident. Of course I am careful and try to anticipate someone pulling a boneheaded stunt, but for the most part my experience has been worry free. With all the tens of thousands of cars that travel on both Morse and Buena Vista daily, I have seen very few accidents. I have yet to have anyone provide any factual data showing that the roundabouts are any more dangerous (higher incidence of accidents) than any other type of intersection in TV. Personally, I find the parking lots (especially at Publix) to be much more dangerous, but nobody is suggesting to get rid of parking lots.

Lots of studies (and they have been posted on other roundabout threads ad nauseum) show that roundabouts move traffic better, are better for the environment, and are actually safer. What we have on these threads is a lot of anecdotal reports from a segment of TOTV members recounting their "near misses."

Perhaps I am lucky because I grew up with a roundabout two blocks away from my childhood home in south Florida. I had to negotiate that (two lane) roundabout when I first learned to drive and never forgot how to use them. I have lived overseas for long periods of time and roundabouts are widely used without incident. I understand that roundabouts are a new experience to many who move to TV and that most have an ingrained fear of doing/trying anything new, BUT I refuse to "sell short" the seniors that live here by falling back on the tired old cliche that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. People can learn to safely use the roundabouts. If not, it is a good thing that they have moved to a golf cart community and they can use there carts.

[Posh 08]

I had to go to Leesburg, Virginia via Route 15 yesterday and boom there were two roundabouts at Gilbert's Corner. That is the intersection of Route 50 and 15. My first experiences with the roundabouts in TV were not smooth so I paid plenty of attention to the threads on TOTV about them. Thanks to that my experience with the Gilbert's Corner roundabouts in heavy traffic went very well. Thanks for all the positive input and "training". Yes, yield to traffic that is already in the roundabout. I feel prepared for my next trip to TV.