Liikenneympyrässä

Liikenneympyrässä refers to a roundabout, a type of circular intersection in traffic engineering. In a roundabout, all vehicles entering the intersection must yield to traffic already in the circle. Drivers typically signal their intention to exit the roundabout. This design prioritizes continuous flow of traffic, reducing idling time and potentially decreasing the severity of accidents compared to traditional intersections with traffic lights or stop signs.

The implementation of roundabouts aims to improve road safety by minimizing conflict points where vehicles can collide. By forcing slower speeds and yielding behavior, it reduces the likelihood of high-speed T-bone or head-on collisions. Studies have shown that roundabouts can significantly reduce the number of fatal and serious injury crashes.

Navigating a roundabout requires drivers to be aware of their surroundings and to understand the right-of-way rules. Generally, vehicles within the roundabout have priority. Pedestrians and cyclists also need to be mindful of roundabout operation, with dedicated paths or crossings often incorporated into their design to ensure safety. The specific design and size of a roundabout can vary depending on the location and the volume of traffic it is intended to handle.