– The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) continues to use roundabouts that improve traffic flow and reduce fatal and severe crashes at intersections.
One example of this is the roundabout now open to traffic at the intersection of U.S. 72 and State Route 7 in Benton County. The $7.8 million contract was awarded to Xcavators Inc. of Falkner in February 2023.
With the recent changes to the U.S. 72 and SR 7 intersection, MDOT is taking this opportunity to remind motorists how to properly use the new roundabout.
Roundabouts force motorists to slow down without requiring them to stop – drivers approaching a roundabout must yield to traffic already circulating in the roundabout. As you approach the roundabout, slow down and look for traffic already in the roundabout. Be prepared to stop if there is not a sufficient gap to enter. If there isan acceptable gap, proceed to enter the roundabout. In the new configuration, drivers along U.S. 72 should yield to any cars already in the roundabout before proceeding through.
As you approach the roundabout, make sure to choose the proper lane to get to your intended destination. If you are on U.S. 72 and wish to make a left on to SR 7 get in the left lane. If you wish to make a right, get in the right lane. If you want to continue straight on U.S. 72, you can use either lane.
Several traffic improvements will guide motorists who are new to this type of roundabout through the intersection. Splitter islands have been installed to alert drivers to reduce their speed on the approach. Curve geometry as you approach the roundabout will gradually slow down motorists as they enter the roundabout. There are also overhead guide signs along U.S. 72 and lighting to ensure motorists maintain proper lanes to access their intended destination.
Studies have shown that roundabouts don’t eliminate all crashes, but crashes that do happen in a roundabout are often less severe. Rural roundabouts typically see a 90% reduction in severe and fatal crashes by reducing vehicle speed, the number of conflict points and crash types.
Stay updated on this project and others by downloading the MDOT Traffic mobile app, visiting at MDOTtraffic.com and following @MississippiDOT on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
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The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is responsible for providing a safe intermodal transportation network that is planned, designed, constructed and maintained in an effective, cost-efficient and environmentally sensitive manner. MDOT’s objective is to maximize taxpayer’s dollars by providing a safe, efficient multimodal network that enhances economic stability and growth. For more information, visit GoMDOT.com.
