4-Way stops or Roundabouts?

[Alex Von Königsberg]

Let's talk about the advantages and disadvantages of modern roundabouts compared to 4-way STOP intersections.

Here is an example of a modern roundabout:



How it works:

• Traffic already on the circle always has the right of way
• Entering traffic should stop only to yield to drivers already on roundabout, otherwise they must not stop
• Pedestrian crosswalk can only cross the path of entering/exiting traffic, but not roundabout itself
• Parking within roundabout is prohibited

Here is an example of a typical American 4-way STOP intersection:



How it works:

• Traffic from every direction must come to a full stop (even if the intersection is empty)
• First come - first go basis
• If two vehicles get to intersection at the same time, the one on the right should go first

Here is how a 4-way STOP intersection compares to the roundabout in terms of conflict points for vehicles:



Conflict points for bicycles:



A typical capacity for roundabouts (vehicles per hour):

• One-lane: 2500-2800
• Two-lane: 3500-4000
• Three-lane: 5,800+

Maximum capacity for 4-way STOP intersection is 1,300 vehicles per hour (need confirmation).

Which alternative would you prefer: all-way stop or roundabout? What is your justification?