Roundabouts Body Content A roundabout is an intersection at which all traffic circulates counterclockwise, to the right of a central island. Entering vehicles must yield to all traffic already in the roundabout. Benefits of RoundaboutsSlows Traffic While Improving Traffic FlowTraffic flow is improved by keeping all directions of traffic flowing as compared to traditional intersection which stops two or more directions of traffic at a time.Improved SafetyRoundabouts have fewer possible conflicts between vehicles, 8 as opposed to a traditional intersection which has 32. Collisions that occur in roundabouts are less severe as a result of the decreased speed.More Environmentally FriendlyThe increased rate of traffic flow in roundabouts reduces the stop and start of traditional intersection. Fewer stops and starts mean reduced fuel consumption which results in reduced emissions.Reduced CostsRoundabouts reduce costs when compared to traditional intersections as there is no need to install, maintain or power traffic signal equipment.