Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

Roundabouts in Minnesota

How does a roundabout work?

Why we use roundabouts

In short, roundabouts are being used because they work well. A roundabout used at the right location will let you get through the intersection more safely and in less time.

Better safety

Roundabouts show an 86 percent decrease in fatal crashes, an 83 percent decrease in life-altering injury crashes, and a 42 percent overall decrease in the injury crash rate at intersections.

Better traffic flow

Roundabouts handle high levels of traffic with less delay than most stop signs or signals. The entry curves slow traffic so entering and exiting are easier and more efficient.

Better fuel efficiency and air quality

Where roundabouts replace signals, idling decreases which reduces vehicle emissions and fuel consumption by 30 percent or more.