What is the purpose of a roundabout?

The primary purpose of a roundabout is to improve traffic flow and reduce collision risk. Roundabouts are designed to allow continuous movement of traffic, which helps to decrease congestion at intersections compared to traditional stop signs or traffic lights. This continuous flow reduces the number of stop-and-go situations, helping vehicles maintain their speed and decreasing overall travel time.

Moreover, the design of roundabouts inherently minimizes potential collision points. Vehicles entering the roundabout yield to traffic already circulating, which typically leads to fewer high-speed accidents, such as T-bone or head-on collisions. By keeping traffic moving in one direction around a central island, they also reduce the likelihood of severe accidents as vehicles do not cross paths directly.

The other choices highlight misconceptions about roundabouts. While they might provide scenic views in some areas or eliminate the need for stop signs, their main function focuses on enhancing safety and efficiency in traffic management.