This page houses information on different traffic safety topics meant to enhance travel experiences for motor vehicle operators, bicyclists, and pedestrians. With campuses in a busy, urban area, UW-Madison and UW Hospital see steady traffic flow throughout the year.
Let’s work together to make campus a safer place for everyone!
Topics
Roundabouts (Traffic Circles)
The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (WISDOT) recommends the following roundabout safety precautions:
Driving motor vehicles in a roundabout
- Slow down; watch for and obey traffic signs.
- Move into the correct lane for the direction you want to travel as you approach the roundabout.
- Yield to–and do not pass–pedestrians and bicyclists as you approach, enter and exit the roundabout.
- Yield to all lanes of traffic on your left before entering.
- Keep your speed low and stay in your lane within the roundabout (do not change lanes within the roundabout).
- Exit carefully to your destination. Use your right-turn signal, in front of the splitter island just prior to your exit, to indicate your intention to exit.
Driving bicycles in a roundabout
- If you are riding in the bike lane or on the far right side of the street, merge into the traffic lane before the roundabout begins.
- Signal your intent to move into traffic.
- Once inside the roundabout, don’t hug the curb.
- Ride close to the middle of the lane to prevent cars from passing and cutting you off.
- Watch for cars waiting to enter the roundabout, as they may not see you.
- If you do not want to ride your bike in the roundabout, use the sidewalk and proceed as a pedestrian.
