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Motorists across the region are likely to get a sense of anxiety when this word appears: roundabout.
No matter where you live, unless maybe in England, traffic circles that replace signals on major roads and streets are sure to bring opposition.
But, like it or not, this travel trend is something that is destined to continue. When accidents occur, it usually has something to do with speed.
Traffic lights do not slow motorists. Consider our actions when the light changes to yellow. Most attempt to get through the intersection, not slow down.
Traffic circles, however, force the calming of traffic.
"Roundabouts are geometrically designed to reduce vehicle speeds to generally 25 mph or less, and all turns are right turns," PennDOT notes on its web site. "This significantly reduces the severity of crashes over those at traditional intersections. Crashes that do occur are typically low-speed, sideswipe crashes rather than high-speed T-bone collisions that can occur at traditional intersections especially with left-turn movements."
The data proves traffic circles are safer than traditional intersections, but because we humans are hard-wired to dislike most anything different than what we're used to, we often complain. Just think of how many people were moaning and groaning a few years ago when PennDOT installed one near Juniata High School and the new bridge between Mifflin and Mifflintown.
And while traffic circles are hardly new to local drivers -- Monument Square in Lewistown has been one for just about as long as there have been automobiles -- they're showing up in greater numbers, as anyone who has taken the Potters Mills exit off the new U.S. 322 bypass in Centre County can attest.
In time, however, those sentiments -- especially when you do not need to wait at a red light -- may signal a change.
And despite the groaning, it's a clear change for the better.