A trip to the UK will quickly reveal that round abouts come in all sizes. 1 and 2 lane are common. 3+ lane are found every once in a while. Some have diameters of hundred + feet in diameter. Some are a white circle only 3 feet across painted on the asphalt. Some have the equivalent of our highway exit lanes.
A few things seem to be true. They work well when people learn to use them correctly. They save energy as in most traffic conditions, you don't need to stop. They don't work as well when traffic conditions are heavy like during rush hour. Often busy round abouts require the addition of traffic lights that operate during peak times so that the down stream entrance has a turn.
As Americans grow more concerned about energy, pollution, noise and time wasted in traffic, I hope we can learn to navigate these valuable devices. I enjoy the time and convenience even when I am pulling the boat.
|