11 Nov 2024 Arden Hills Notes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

cityofardenhills.org • Nov. 2024 • 5 Navigating Roundabouts Roundabouts are becoming an increasingly common feature on our roadways, designed to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents. If you’ve traveled near Lindey’s Steakhouse recently, you’ve likely noticed Arden Hills’ newest roundabout. While roundabouts may seem intimidating at first, they’re quite easy to navigate once you understand the basics. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when approaching and driving through a roundabout: 1. Slow Down and Yield As you approach the roundabout, reduce your speed. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Vehicles circulating inside the roundabout have the right of way, so be sure to wait for a safe gap before entering. 2. Look for Pedestrians and Cyclists Before entering and exiting the roundabout, always check for pedestrians and cyclists. They have the right of way in designated crosswalks. 3. Signal Your Intentions If you’re taking the first exit (turning right), signal right as you approach. If you’re continuing straight, you do not need to signal when entering but signal right when you’re ready to exit. For a left turn or a full circle, signal left as you enter and then signal right just before your exit. 4. One-Way Circulation Remember that traffic in roundabouts always moves counterclockwise. Stay in your lane and do not change lanes inside the roundabout. 5. Large Vehicles Need Space Be cautious around large trucks or buses. They may need more room to maneuver and giving them extra space as they navigate the roundabout is important. Roundabouts help reduce the frequency and severity of collisions. They slow traffic and eliminate the most dangerous types of accidents, like head-on and high-speed right-angle crashes. They also improve traffic flow, cutting down on congestion during peak times. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has resources and information available regarding roundabouts. Visit www.dot.state.mn.us/roundabouts to learn more. Photo courtesy of MNDOT November 18-22 is Winter Hazard Awareness Week. To help Minnesota residents minimize the risks of winter, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety sponsors Winter Hazard Awareness Week each fall in collaboration with the National Weather Service and other state, federal, and non-profit agencies. The week-long campaign will include media and digital promotions, information, and resources that can be used with school, church, or civic programs. Topics include winter storms, outdoor winter safety, winter fire safety, indoor winter safety, and winter driving. Learn more at cityofardenhills.org/winter-hazard.