Roundabouts in Waterloo Region: Fewer Serious Crashes, But More Bumps Along the Way

June 30, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Roundabouts have become a familiar sight across Waterloo Region. As our communities grow and traffic gets heavier, these circular intersections are meant to keep vehicles moving smoothly and cut down on serious collisions. Major spots like Ira Needles Boulevard and Erb Street now rely on roundabouts to handle busy traffic while aiming to make our roads safer overall.

But even with new safety upgrades—like raised crosswalks and flashing pedestrian beacons—roundabouts come with their own risks that every driver, cyclist, and pedestrian should keep in mind.

A Bit Safer, But More Collisions Overall

When a traditional traffic light gets replaced by a roundabout, something interesting happens: the total number of collisions usually goes up, but those crashes tend to be less severe. That’s because roundabouts force drivers to slow down and move in the same direction, which helps prevent dangerous T-bone and head-on crashes.

On the flip side, local traffic data shows that many drivers are still learning how to use roundabouts properly. Mistakes like not yielding, cutting someone off, or stopping too suddenly can lead to more minor fender-benders. While these collisions are less likely to be fatal, they can still cause injuries, vehicle damage, and headaches when it comes to insurance claims.

Yielding: Where Many Drivers Go Wrong

One of the biggest reasons collisions happen in roundabouts is simple driver error. Many drivers either don’t know or forget that cars already in the roundabout always have the right of way. Misjudging gaps, rushing to merge, or failing to watch for pedestrians can easily cause a crash.

This is why education and reminders are so important. Taking an extra moment to slow down and yield properly can make a big difference for everyone’s safety.

Extra Caution for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Roundabouts can be tricky spots for people on foot or on bikes. Drivers often focus so much on other vehicles that they don’t see pedestrians waiting to cross. Cyclists face their own challenges—they might feel pressured to keep up with traffic or try to merge with cars in tight spaces.

Without clear crosswalks, visible signage, and protected bike lanes, these risks can add up. New features like raised crosswalks and flashing lights help, but they only work if drivers stay alert and give pedestrians and cyclists the space they need. In the end, everyone has to do their part to share the road safely.

Weather and Growing Traffic Volumes

It’s not all bad news - roundabouts generally hold up well in poor weather compared to intersections with traffic lights. Research shows rain doesn’t dramatically increase crash risk at roundabouts, while traditional intersections tend to see more collisions in wet conditions.

That said, as Waterloo Region keeps growing, more vehicles using roundabouts means even small risks can lead to more incidents. That’s why staying alert, no matter the weather, is still so important.

What’s Being Done to Make Roundabouts Safer

The Region of Waterloo is continuing to invest in ways to make busy roundabouts safer. This year, raised crosswalks are being installed to slow down approaching vehicles and make pedestrians more visible. Flashing beacons at crosswalks will also help catch drivers’ attention and remind them to yield.

These improvements are a good step forward, but they can’t do the job alone. Clear road markings, community awareness, and drivers who know the rules are all just as important for keeping these intersections safe.

If You’re Hurt in a Roundabout Accident

If you’re injured in a roundabout collision, you may have a right to seek compensation. Many of these crashes happen because someone didn’t yield, wasn’t paying attention, or ignored pedestrian crossings—these are often clear signs of negligence.

Sometimes, a poorly designed roundabout or missing safety features can play a role too. In these cases, the city or region responsible for the road may share liability for injuries that occur.

It’s also worth remembering that everyone has a duty to follow the rules. If a pedestrian crosses where they shouldn’t, or a cyclist doesn’t use marked paths when they’re available, it can affect how fault is determined.

Stay Safe and Know Where to Turn for Help

Roundabouts can make our roads safer if everyone does their part. Always approach them with care: slow down, watch for other vehicles, yield when you should, and stay mindful of pedestrians and cyclists. If you’re walking, use marked crosswalks and try to make eye contact with drivers. If you’re cycling and feel unsure about merging with traffic, walk your bike through the crossing when needed.

If you or someone close to you is hurt in a roundabout accident, you don’t have to deal with the aftermath on your own. At Deutschmann de Koning Law, our team has years of experience helping people navigate personal injury claims and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Contact Us

If you’ve been injured at a roundabout or any intersection, reach out for a free consultation. We’re here to help protect your rights and guide you every step of the way.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.