Road safety is critical for anyone spending time on the roads in South Africa. One of the most important measures to improve road safety is through the proper use of roundabouts. This article delves into what roundabouts are, when they should be used, and how they can benefit road safety.

A roundabout is a type of traffic circle located at intersections where traffic flows in one direction and vehicles enter and leave it in an anticlockwise rotation. It is a circular shaped intersection that enables drivers to enter, move around the circle, and exit it in a safe and uniform manner. A central island gives drivers an idea of the area of operation and helps control traffic as it enters and leaves the roundabout.

There are numerous advantages to using roundabouts in comparison to other types of intersections. The key advantages from the perspective of safety include the quicker flow of traffic, less crossing and turning traffic, lower speed of vehicle movement, reduced braking and turning collisions and reduced number of vehicles running red lights. It is estimated that the risk of a crash occurring at a roundabout is roughly 75 percent lower than at a signalized intersection with the same traffic volumes. This improvement in safety makes roundabouts an attractive option in reducing vehicle and pedestrian fatalities.

In fact, the South African National Road Agency (SANRAL) has recommended the implementation of roundabouts to enhance safety levels in the country. This recommendation has seen the installation of many new roundabouts designed with safety in mind. The additional space created by the presence of the central island provides drivers with a warning of the presence of another approaching vehicle and helps ensure that drivers are mindful of their speed and aware of the presence of other vehicles. This extra area also gives pedestrians the opportunity to safely cross the road.

There are certain rules for using roundabouts safely. Firstly, drivers must have a proper understanding of the geometry of the roundabout. This includes an understanding of the lane that should be used when entering, navigating and leaving the roundabout. Secondly, drivers must know who has right of way at each stage throughout the roundabout. This includes knowing when to give way to vehicles already in the roundabout, and when to indicate when entering, navigating and leaving the roundabout. Lastly, drivers must know the safe speed limit to travel at throughout the roundabout.

When used properly and with the right understanding of their features, roundabouts can improve safety on the roads. Implementing roundabouts can go a long way in lowering the number of preventable traffic fatalities. By installing roundabouts, drivers are encouraged to slow down and pay proper attention to the presence of other vehicles, as well as being obligated to adhere to the rules pertaining to their use.

QikTruck offers on-demand truck and driver hire services to enable South African businesses to safely and efficiently transport goods on the roads. We are committed to enhancing road safety through our services including providing fully insured vehicle operating within the laws. QikTruck’s truck and driver hire services offer customers a convenient and cost-effective way to ensure their goods arrive safely to their destinations. By making use of our services, customers can reduce the number of vehicles on the roads, and with fewer vehicles, the proper use of roundabouts can help improve the overall safety on South African roads.

 

Move anything anytime with QikTruck

Copyright 2023