Injury Reduction Benefits of Roundabouts Evaluated Using Real-world Data and Simulation Software

EXTENDED ABSTRACT: Roundabout geometry inherently promotes favorable impact angles and reduced travel speeds, with casualty crash reductions of around 75% being found (Newstead et al., 2001). Using real-world crash and speed data, the benefits of a traditional roundabout were examined. We present a crash case-study and free-speed measurements from a conventional roundabout to highlight the safety performance of this design. While the conventional roundabout is a Safe System compliant intersection treatment, not all designs promote travel speeds that meet acceptable injury risk levels. Contemporary design issues are discussed briefly in this context.