A year ago, four roundabouts replaced stop signs and traffic lights on Northeast 137th Avenue between Northeast 49th and Northeast 28th streets. As a person who commutes this route several times during the work week, I am thankful for the roundabouts but I do not appreciate those drivers who do not practice roundabout etiquette. On several mornings, my life has been recklessly endangered due to aggressive and disorderly drivers. Even worse, I have gasped at the thought of those kids who have experienced “near misses” as they walk or ride a bike to school. Bottom line is maneuvering dangerously through roundabouts without etiquette will eventually cost more than the few seconds saved.
To help prevent an adverse roundabout experience, I recommend that drivers practice three roundabout rules of etiquette.
First: When driving into a roundabout, slow down and yield to drivers who are already in the roundabout. Note: If the roundabout is clear, do not stop.
Second: Stay in your lane and do not pass the drivers who approached the roundabout in front of you. Note: Only pass if the driver in front of you stops for no reason.
