How do drivers that have never before encountered a roundabout learn how they function?
Well-designed roundabouts are easy and intuitive to drive. New roundabouts in the U.S. generally have lower speeds while drivers are getting accustomed to them. After the introductory period, speeds rise to normal levels as driver confidence grows. The State of Maryland has installed approximately 30 roundabouts in the past few years, and has developed a brochure to educate drivers on how they function. These are distributed to motorists passing through the area in advance of a roundabout opening. Initially, stop signs are also used in lieu of yield signs during the initial period. The Maryland State Highway Administration has an excellent Use Guide on its web site [see http://www.sha.state.md.us/safety/oots/roundabouts/index.asp].
