Tuesday, June 09, 2026

RoundAbouts vs Traffic-lights

a bit surprising stats... 

Are Roundabouts Actually Better Than Traffic Lights? - YouTube

This video tests whether roundabouts are superior to traffic lights by comparing two 10-mile routes in Carmel, Indiana. The experiment evaluates time efficiency, fuel consumption, safety, and pedestrian accessibility.

Key Findings & Statistics

  • Travel Time: The roundabout route was significantly faster, taking approximately 34% less time to complete than the traffic light route.
  • Consistency: Roundabouts provide a more stable travel experience. The difference in travel time between daytime and nighttime was negligible (only 2 seconds), whereas the traffic light route fluctuated by about 4 minutes based on signal timing and traffic volume.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The roundabout route achieved 3.2 MPG better fuel economy due to reduced idling and stop-and-go driving. Carmel estimates savings of 24,000 gallons of gas per year for each converted intersection.
  • Safety: Roundabouts drastically reduce conflict points. Data indicates they can reduce injury crashes by approximately 75% and fatalities by up to 90% by shifting the nature of accidents from high-speed, sharp-angle collisions to slower-speed sideswipes.

Key Conclusions

  • Driving Experience: Roundabouts force greater driver engagement, which paradoxically leads to safer road conditions






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