Citation

Waddell E, Gingrich M, Lenters M. ITE J. 2009; 79(2): 40-45.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Institute of Transportation Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Large vehicles such as trucks can have difficulty navigating modern roundabouts due to the compact geometry of the roundabout. This article uses examples and shared design experiences to discuss emerging issues regarding the accommodation of trucks in North American roundabouts. Some of the methods used to accommodate trucks include transversable islands, truck aprons, use of the adjacent lane, widened entries, right-turn aprons, and bypass lanes. Each design technique involves tradeoffs in terms of safety, capacity and cost. Since each of the design techniques applies under different site conditions, a context-sensitive approach is needed when planning and designing roundabouts that can accommodate large trucks.