How roundabouts are more green than traffic lights and how they help save lives

The city of Carmel in Indiana is known as the roundabout capital of America, with around 140 roundabouts in total. Photo: AFP

Although often criticised, traffic circles, or roundabouts, are highly effective in reducing the risk of accidents at intersections. For proof of this, look no further than Carmel, Indiana in the United States, considered a leader in the field.

The city is now world famous for its roundabouts. Since 1998, it has built over 138 of them, mostly replacing traditional traffic lights. No other US city can boast as many.