WASHINGTON — When it comes to traffic, it might be time to think round. Roundabouts could replace intersections soon.
Obviously there are some places where traffic lights are just plain necessary, but some experts think traffic would flow better if intersections were replaced by smaller roundabouts.
Traffic safety studies show that roundabouts reduce fatal crashes by 75 percent because they cause drivers to slow down, and cut down on the number of conflict points. There is also no electricity required to run lights.
The Virginia Department of Transportation recently put in several smaller roundabouts in the Gilberts Corner area in Loudoun County.