Over 5 Years, Fatality Rate from Roundabout Traffic Accidents Decreased by Over 50%

by Cho Seongpill

Published 25 Apr.2022 09:37(KST)

Roundabout

[Asia Economy Reporter Seongpil Cho] The fatality rate of traffic accidents at roundabouts, which are expanding nationwide, has decreased by more than 50% compared to the past.

The Korea Road Traffic Authority announced on the 25th that an analysis of traffic accidents occurring at roundabouts nationwide over the past five years from 2016 to 2020 showed a decreasing trend in the number of accidents and fatalities per 100 roundabouts in 2020 compared to 2016. According to the Authority, the number of accidents decreased from 94.84 cases in 2016 to 92.9 cases in 2020, and the number of fatalities dropped from 1.68 to 0.77 during the same period. The fatality rate also declined from 1.77 to 0.83.

A roundabout is an intersection where vehicles pass by circumventing a central circular traffic island. Compared to general intersections, the lower passing speed through roundabouts can reduce serious traffic accidents such as deaths or severe injuries. Additionally, compared to signal-controlled intersections, unnecessary stops are minimized, shortening the time to pass through the intersection, and reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. For these reasons, roundabouts are steadily being installed nationwide every year.

The Authority is strengthening publicity on the correct way to use roundabouts following recent amendments to the Road Traffic Act. Vehicles must travel counterclockwise in roundabouts, and vehicles entering the roundabout must slow down or stop temporarily and yield to other vehicles already circulating. If a vehicle is signaling to proceed within the roundabout, drivers of following vehicles must not obstruct the progress of the signaling vehicle. These traffic rules were newly established in the amended Road Traffic Act announced on January 11 and will be enforced starting July 12.

An official from the Authority said, "Roundabouts are safe and efficient intersections based on yielding and consideration," adding, "The more awareness of the correct way to use roundabouts spreads, the greater the effect will be."