Traffic circles have been a standard feature of roads throughout Europe for a while but have only recently begun to become more popular in the United States. Despite some localities in the US embracing traffic circles, many people have been resistant to implementing this new traffic pattern. Much of the pushback is due to confusion over the rules of traffic circles, and among the most common questions that drivers have involves the right of way.

If you’ve been involved in a traffic circle accident in New York City, Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices can help you pursue financial compensation from the at-fault driver. We’ve been representing injured New Yorkers for over 30 years, and our extensive experience is what you need when facing a complex car accident claim.

What is a Traffic Circle?

The terms roundabout and traffic circle are often used interchangeably, but the New York Department of Transportation clarifies that there is a slight difference. Roundabouts are circular intersections that require entering drivers to yield to drivers already driving in the circle. They involve slow-moving vehicles that allow traffic to enter and circulate. Traffic circles, on the other hand, are typically larger with straighter entrances and involve high-speed merging. Despite these contrasting features, most people do not differentiate between traffic circles and roundabouts and use both terms to mean the same type of traffic intersection.

Are Traffic Circles Safer than Traditional Intersections?

The Department of Transportation reports that roundabouts are much safer than traditional intersections due in large part to the number of conflict points that exist in each:

  • Traditional intersections have 32 vehicle conflict points and 24 pedestrian conflict points.
  • Traffic circles have 8 vehicle conflict points and 8 pedestrian conflict points.

Not only do traffic circles cut back on the number of collisions, but they also improve traffic flow. However, it’s crucial that drivers understand how to use traffic circles and what the rules are in order for them to be safer options for motorists.

Understanding Right-of-Way Rules at Traffic Circles

Perhaps the most important rule of a traffic circle or roundabout is that the cars already in the circle have the right of way. Entering vehicles must yield to the traffic driving around the intersection. Drivers who fail to yield to oncoming traffic in the roundabout could be liable for any accidents they cause as a result.

Top Causes of Accidents at Traffic Circles

Because there tends to be so much confusion over how to enter, travel around, and exit traffic circles in New York, these traffic features are not accident-free. The most common causes of accidents include:

  • Failure to yield – as the leading cause of accidents in roundabouts and traffic circles, failure to yield is a significant issue. Entering traffic must check for oncoming traffic and yield to avoid collisions.
  • Distracted driving – driving distracted can lead to accidents at the entry points of traffic circles or within the circle, including rear-end accidents.
  • Lane confusion – traffic circles can be single-lane or multi-lane, and knowing when to change lanes in order to exit the circle can lead to sideswipe accidents or other types of collisions.
  • Speeding – roundabouts and traffic circles in New York have speed limits to control the flow of traffic and prevent accidents. However, drivers who speed around the intersection can lose control of their vehicle or fail to react to other vehicles in time to avoid collision.

Obtain Experienced Representation After a New York Traffic Circle Accident

New Yorkers who have been injured in a traffic circle accident deserve dedicated legal representation who will fight for their financial recovery. It’s important not to wait too long after an accident to file a claim because injured accident victims have a limited amount of time to take legal action in New York. Contact Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices to schedule a free consultation and discuss how we can help you seek compensation from the at-fault driver.