The use of roundabouts on Florida roads has yielded a number of benefits for pedestrians and motorists alike. Compared to traditional intersections, they reduce the risk of serious accidents that can result in serious injuries or death. This is largely because they are designed to force drivers to slow down and to keep pedestrians away from vehicles.
How roundabouts force vehicles to slow down
As the name suggests, a roundabout is designed to make cars travel in a circle. If you try to travel at 55 miles per hour around a circle, there’s a good chance that you’ll lose control. In many cases, speed limits inside of a roundabout are reduced to 30 miles per hour or slower. In addition, prior to entering the roundabout, you must slow down or come to a complete stop to determine if it’s safe to do so.
Why roundabouts are safer for pedestrians
Roundabouts tend to be safer for pedestrians because they are often allowed to walk or bike on the perimeters. This means that they don’t have to share a lane with a vehicle or cut across a lane of traffic to cross the street. As vehicles are traveling at a reduced rate of speed, any motor vehicle accident that does involve pedestrians won’t be as severe as one that might occur at a traditional intersection. Therefore, there is less risk of broken bones, a concussion or some other significantly adverse outcome.
If you are hurt in an accident regardless of its location, you may be entitled to compensation. The other driver in your case, the agency responsible for maintaining the road and other parties may be liable for damages. Videos, photographs and other lines of evidence may be used to help obtain a favorable outcome in your case.