81–85 of 85 posts
No HN discussion of roundabouts is complete until someone has posted the Magic Roundabout. There are several in the UK, this is the one nearest to me. And yes it's as insane to drive on as it looks, but safer as everyone is terrified and drives slowly. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Roundabout_(Hemel_Hempst...
When visitors were coming to the office in Swindon, I always gave them directions that took them thru the magic roundabout. Jolly good fun.
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> They block the passing lane What do you mean by block it? I can't recall the last time I saw someone in the passing lane that was driving under the speed limit (or prevailing speed when there's traffic) except when preparing to turn left.
The passing lane has nothing to do with the speed limit. It's for passing only, at ANY speed (with the unfortunate exception of truly bumper-to-bumper traffic). When you're done passing (or aren't passing), GTFO. That's especially true if someone comes up behind you. Some states have laws saying so. Illinois law says it's illegal to block the passing lane for more than half a mile at ANY speed. Now states need to tak…
It appears that Illinois law also has an exception for traffic congestion, but not for speed limits.
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The passing lane has nothing to do with the speed limit. It's for passing only, at ANY speed (with the unfortunate exception of truly bumper-to-bumper traffic). When you're done passing (or aren't passing), GTFO. That's especially true if someone comes up behind you. Some states have laws saying so. Illinois law says it's illegal to block the passing lane for more than half a mile at ANY speed. Now states need to tak…
Ah. In my state, California, the passing lane rule only applies if you're not already going the speed limit or if there is traffic congestion, the normal speed of traffic. If you're going the speed limit, you are under no obligation to get out of the left lane just because someone behind you wants to speed. Regardless though you're supposed to move right if you're moving slower than the lane to your right. It appears…
Not that we'll ever see such a thing enforced. We can't even get a legitimate anti-texting law passed.
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I guess that depends on your definition of "work." Do they reduce delays? I believe (and have seen) that they can. But I've also seen traffic circles implemented with stop signs in the U.S., a failure. But hey, I'm down for more to be built in the USA and let's give it a shot.
This is the reason on that traffic related infrastructure is so insane in the US: here we have evidence that roundabouts save lives, but the only thing the American can wonder is how fast they can get through it (to work no doubt).
You know what else saves lives? Outlawing the use of cars entirely. Why aren't you arguing for that?
I'm an American who lived in the UK for a couple of years. They have many roundabouts there, and I love them. But now I live in an American town with a few, and I've realized that there's a reason that they are less safe in the US than in the UK--besides the fact that American drivers are less familiar with them. It's a solvable problem, but not one I've heard people talk about. (Though to be clear, I'm not a traffic…
In the Netherlands it is very common to have both crosswalks and bike priority lanes on the roundabout, especially in busy city environments. This actually improves safety, as the 'vulnerable' road users cross when drivers are driving slow and alert. Also, the access to the roundabout is slowed down by the crosswalks and bike lane, which improves safety for the drivers as well.