ALERT: Grants Mill Road is opening a new roundabout [PHOTOS + VIDEO]

Next time you drive down Grants Mill Road you might notice something new in the street—a roundabout. It was created in collaboration with Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) and Jefferson County to improve traffic flow in the area. Keep reading to find out more details and how to safely navigate it.

What are the benefits of the roundabout?

We checked in with Jefferson County to find out why roundabouts are beneficial.

Safety—intersections under roundabout control experience a decrease in crashes and a substantial decrease in property damage costs because all of the traffic is at an angle.

Traffic flow—roundabouts reduce delays and idle time for drivers sitting at a light, saving them time.

Environmentally friendly— roundabouts can reduce emissions from vehicles.

The roundabout will be open for vehicles starting Wednesday, August 16.

Find out how to navigate the roundabout.

According to Jefferson County, here are some tips and tricks to help you safely navigate the roundabout:

• Slow down when approaching
• Know what lane you need to be in before arriving at the roundabout
• Always yield to traffic already in the circle
• Look left and proceed with caution when clear
• The right is designed for those turning right
• Do not change lanes in the roundabout
• If you miss your exit – go around again

“The two lane roundabout will improve traffic because people won’t have to stop at stop signs or stop lights at that specific intersection where different roads come together. Roundabouts are safer because you are coming at an angle into the roundabout. If someone does have a wreck or collision statistics show they are less severe accidents.”

Helen Hays, Director of Public Information, Jefferson County

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