This new roundabout upsets the habits of motorists: it will be installed in all these cities in France

This new roundabout upsets the habits of motorists it will

This type of roundabout should make it possible to improve circulation and limit clashes between road users. Here are the new rules to know if you meet it on the roads of France.

Everyone knows, the cohabitation between motorists, bikers and cyclists on the roads has always been complicated. Between those who are in a hurry, those who are vulnerable and those who are unpredictable, tensions are often inevitable. However, rules exist thanks to the highway code, but they are applied differently depending on the behavior and perception of each. A contested priority, a change of poorly anticipated line, an reckless crossing on a roundabout … and the incident is never far away. And with the boom in cycling in town since the health crisis, this kind of situation unfortunately only multiplies.

To remedy this, some cities have taken steps by installing a new type of road development: the Dutch roundabout. Inspired by the Netherlands, it reduces the risks of collision and fluidifies traffic for all users. Clearly, a Dutch roundabout is a type of crossroads specially designed to secure cyclists and pedestrians. Unlike conventional roundabouts, it incorporates a circular cycle path separated from the roadway, with well-defined pedestrian crossings. In the end, it is as if there was a second roundabout for bikes and pedestrians all around the first.

Example of a Dutch roundabout in Amsterdam © Moovstock-123rf

As for the circulation rule to be applied, cars must give way first to bikes and pedestrians before entering and leaving the roundabout. In principle, thanks to this installation, users have better visibility before engaging on a roundabout.

In France, this system is already in place in several cities, notably in Rennes, Brest and Clermont-Ferrand, as well as in certain municipalities of Île-de-France such as Bures-sur-Yvette and Créteil. Its deployment continues and it will soon be installed in the Metropolis of Lille. Opinion to motorists!

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