Ohio Drivers Experience Fewer Injuries at Roundabout Intersections

Ohio's roads are becoming safer as the state embraces the construction of roundabouts, leading to a notable decrease in injury-related crashes.

 

According to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), single-lane roundabouts have resulted in a 69% reduction in injury crashes, while multi-lane roundabouts have seen a 25% decline.

 

ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn emphasized the agency's commitment to safety, stating, "Safety is the driving force behind every decision we make, and the results are clear, roundabouts are very effective at reducing crashes and saving lives."

 

In July 2025, Governor Mike DeWine announced an additional $137 million for traffic safety projects across the state, with 25 of these projects involving the installation of roundabouts.

 

Specific examples of roundabout success include:

 

Gallia County: The intersection of State Routes 160 and 554 in Bidwell was converted to a roundabout in 2021. Since then, the average number of crashes has dropped to two per year, with no injuries reported.

 

Greene County: A new roundabout at U.S. 68 and State Route 235 near Oldtown in Xenia Township opened in December 2024. The intersection was previously identified as a high-crash rural location, and the roundabout aims to improve safety.

 

Allen County: ODOT has selected a conventional roundabout to improve safety at the intersection of State Route 117 and State Route 501 in Shawnee Township. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.

 

These projects are part of a broader initiative to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities across Ohio.