You either love them, or hate them. That’s what I hear.
I think some people believe roundabouts are the creation of crazed urban planners who feed on chaos. And there are those who think they are the next best thing since sliced bread. The naysayers have specific fears: not knowing what to do, not knowing what the other drivers will do, going round in circles until their hair turns grey. The others are logically-minded, fearless, and, dare I say, normal.
Yes, I was once a naysayer. But I overcame my fears and read up on the purpose and efficiency of roundabouts.
Essentially, roundabouts, sometimes referred to as “traffic circles”, though true traffic circles are larger, with lights and possible straight lanes for entering and exiting, are designed to promote a constant flow of traffic. Their benefits are many: They help lower speeds. They eliminate crossing traffic. They allow for a higher vehicle capacity. There is a reduction of gas emissions because there is less idling of engines. Esthetics of the location may see improvement.
As of now, the city of Sarnia has two roundabout locations. The intersection of Cathcart and Indian. And Quinn Drive where it meets The Rapids Parkway. In the county, there is one at Lakeshore and Mandaumin, and one at Egremont and Nauvoo roads.
The history of roundabouts dates as far back as 1768, in Somerset England. Canada did not get its first modern roundabout until 1999, in Montreal. However, in the mid-1950s, Edmonton had seven traffic circles. As of 2021, there are an estimated 1050 roundabouts in the country, and their numbers are growing. Even Sarnia is considering construction of another one at Cathcart and Christina – the entrance to Canatara Park.
For the naysayers and the fearful, here’s a general idea of what to do when a roundabout rudely interrupts your leisurely drive.
- Slow down and yield to pedestrians, cyclists and cars.
- Watch for signs that direct you to your exit.
- Choose the correct lane (is that easier said than done?).
- Do not change lanes and do not stop.
- Use right turn signal when exiting.
To be more specific, if you are turning right, use outer lane and signal right. If you are going straight, exit directly from that lane at the exit. If you are turning left, enter left lane, travel in the inner lane and exit directly from it.
See? Easy as pie.
Studies have shown that roundabouts have reduced the number of collisions, injuries and fatalities. A total win-win.
For further detail on how to use a roundabout, go to the County of Lambton website. It offers straightforward answers, images and videos.
No doubt there will always be lovers and haters when it comes to roundabouts. But remember, roundabouts have feelings, too. They have good intentions. They want Sarnia drivers to be safe, and to get to their destinations quicker and without mishaps.