It has come to my attention that many people, though most of us in this town use it every day, aren’t actually sure how to use our beloved roundabout.
Completed in December of 2023, A Christmas gift to many, was a project that casted a hope to reduce the traffic nightmares. This especially excited students of East due to the immense traffic buildups we used to experience on school-day mornings.
Beyond the roundabouts’ ability to reduce traffic, the choice of placement was to enhance safety. However, if its users aren’t circling correctly, we completely diminish its point for safety and efficiency.
So, to preserve both safety and sanity, here’s a step by step guide to conquering the roundabout like a traffic-aware citizen.
Steps to survive, and thrive, in the Wolfs Crossing and Harvey Road roundabout:
1. Approach with confidence.
As you near the roundabout, look to your left and yield to the drivers who are already circling. They have the right of way.
2. Circle counterclockwise always.
No matter which exit you plan to take, you should prepare to enter and exit to your right. And remember, there are two lanes in the roundabout, make sure you are using the correct lane that corresponds to the direction you plan to exit. You cannot switch lanes while using the roundabout.
3. Enter when there’s a gap.
Once there is space, GO. You don’t need to wait for a spiritual sign, a perfect opening, or for the circle to be completely empty. And once you’re inside: keep moving. You cannot stop while you are circling, so if you miss your exit just proceed around and enjoy your merry-go-round experience until you reach your exit again.
4. Before you exit, turn on your right turn signal.
Do not signal while you’re circling but rather right before you exit. We all know we are turning. It’s a circle. Don’t confuse the people behind you.
Although the large circular road may look intimidating, it’s actually easier and even less-daunting than the previous 4-way stop. Drive safely, circle confidently, and let’s make our roundabout the Christmas miracle it was meant to be.
Written by senior Ashley Gumm. Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.