How To Drive Through Roundabouts In Illinois

Roundabouts, those circular traffic wonders that leave some drivers baffled and others spinning in circles, have become a common sight on roads in Illinois.

If you've ever found yourself scratching your head at these peculiar intersections, fear not. Here are facts about roundabouts that might make them seem more likable.

Florida has the most roundabouts in the country and, according to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), roundabouts reduce fatal crashes by over 90%:

Roundabouts substantially reduce accidents like right-angle, left-turn, and head-on collisions, which can lead to more dangerous and fatal crashes.

The Institute for Highway Safety studied 24 intersections that were originally controlled by signals or stop signs but converted to roundabouts. The results proved there was a reduction in crashes that resulted in injuries by 72 to 80 percent.

READ MORE: Is it Illegal to Drive Under The Speed Limit on Illinois Roads?

Roundabouts save taxpayers' money.

These intersections don't require the installation or maintenance of traffic signals, there's never a need to direct traffic.

It has no light signals or stop signs and all traffic moves in one direction.

There are 3 things drivers need to always remember:

This is different than "normal" intersections. Drivers who are already in the circle have the right of way. They don't need to maneuver to make room for entering vehicles like a basic intersection.

If any emergency vehicle is approaching, continue to your exit and then pull over. Never stop inside a roundabout.

When approaching a roundabout you must always slown so that you can yield to traffic already in the circle and to pedestrians crossing as you enter and as you exit.

The speed limits can range from 15 to 25 mph, but most are around 15. A way to remember is not forgetting the shorter the diameter, the lower the speed limit.

Other things to remember when entering a roundabout:

Want to avoid Illinois' roundabouts? Check out this map.