Feedback: Go ahead, build a roundabout
July 3, 2008 · Updated 10:30 PM
The question about roundabouts is whether or not an American driver can learn the rule of right and zippering, and use of your signal indicator when you leave the traffic circle.
The first rule is yielding the right of way to a car entering the traffic circle from your right. The second rule is a case of allowing traffic to merge. This is often either not evident or mastered by most drivers.
Ive driven over in Europe and Japan for years where roundabouts are common and I think there great! There is no waiting for a traffic signal to change and movement is maneuverable within the circle. When traffic is congested, then you zipper into the circle. Failure to give the right of way is a hefty traffic fine here. Its all about courtesy.
Americans overseas have learned to master roundabouts and they have said they like them better than traffic lights. I do have reservations about Americans in the United States whom I believe have no patience or inclination to learn a few new traffic tricks. After all, most Americans dont realize they must slow down at an amber light, yet alone, stop at a red light.
Come on show me Im wrong, build a roundabout. Auf Weidersehen.
Daniel Rivas
Ramstein, Germany
Comment on this story.
So keep your comments:
- Civil
- Smart
- On-topic
- Free of profanity
We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters. We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please refer to our Terms of Use for full detail on participating on our site.
