Researchers from Minnesota studied more than 2,800 driver–pedestrian interactions at roundabouts, supplemented by staged crossings (50 pedestrian, 50 bicycle), to compare how often drivers yield at roundabout entries versus exits. They found a striking discrepancy: about 80 % of drivers yielded to pedestrians and bicyclists when entering the roundabout, but only 40 % yielded when exiting. The authors suggest several contributing factors, such as drivers accelerating as they leave, failing to recognize that yielding rules apply on exit, reluctance to interrupt circulating traffic, and insufficient queued space for crosswalks on the exit leg.

The study also observed that yield rates were higher in certain conditions: smaller, single-lane roundabouts (where speeds are lower and driver decision paths simpler), crossings that are more conspicuous (for example on a median island or with improved visibility), and the presence of rectangular rapid flashing beacons. Despite the lower yielding on exits, the authors note that roundabouts remain safer overall relative to many other intersection types—but emphasize the need for caution, especially for vulnerable users like pedestrians and bicyclists at exit crossings.

You can read the article here.