New traffic calming measures have drivers going in circles.
Surrey is installing many traffic circles in several south Surrey locations as a way to ease congestion, but there is confusion about exactly how to use them.
The roundabouts -- which are popular in large European cities -- replace traditional four-way stops or traffic lights, and are intended to slow drivers as they go through the intersection.
But there is concern that many residents don't know how to use the circles properly - and that could lead to accidents.
"I saw a motorcycle hit and flip," says Surrey resident Mike Baynes.
"I actually like them," says another resident. "Whether people actually know how to use them is a different question."
The proper way to use the circles is to slow down as you approach, merge into traffic, and yield to oncoming vehicles that are already in the circle.
Surrey's mayor says the circles are actually making intersections safer for drivers.
"We have over the past three years seen 83 fatalities in the city of Surrey," says Dianne Watts. "We need to change driving patterns, reeducate the general public and we need to put in measures that will help us to do that."
A recent study by ICBC indicates roundabouts are safer than four way stops or traffic lights.
The study found an 80 per cent reduction in intersection related accidents, and when accidents occur they are less severe.
Some residents have also expressed concern about large trucks driving over the wide section in the middle of the circle, called the truck apron or skirt.
But new traffic circles are actually designed to have large trucks drive right over the center section, and drivers should not be concerned.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Julia Foy
