I’m not the world’s best driver, but I’m closer to it than the worst. There are a few things that cause “my father in me” to come out: motorists in the fast lane driving slow, people who ride your bumper and people who get in the other lane when two lanes merge a dozen feet after the light while everyone else gets into the one long lane and waits their turn.
As traffic flows become bigger issues, the city and county have been taking steps to keep people moving. When the first roundabout came to Hamilton County I think we were all taken back (and still seem to get behind those maneuvering through it their first time). Now the European-based design has become a popular replacement for intersections – and almost a mandate for every 100 yards of roadway in Carmel.
U.S. 31 improvements have almost called for a study session and a couple trips to fully understand when to turn, where to turn and what exits get you to where you want to go quickest.
And I can deal with all that because I know it only takes time to adjust. One design that I hope doesn’t become as standard as highway cloverleaves and street roundabouts is the “Michigan Left.”
Studies have shown a major reduction in left-turn collisions and a minor reduction in merging and diverging collisions with the “Michigan Left.” However, one minor disadvantage of the design is the extra distance required for the motorist to drive. Using the 96th Street-Allisonville Road intersection as an example, one must pass through the intersection, wait at a light (and on others who realize they need to get in the turn lane), make a U-turn and then – most likely – get stuck back at the original intersection with a “no turn on red” mocking you.
Unlike Motown music, but more like the Pistons, this is one thing Michigan can keep to itself.