While it depends on the number of pedestrians and vehicles, in many instances, a modern roundabout can be safer for pedestrians than a traffic signal. Pedestrian crossing is reduced to two simple crossings of one-way traffic that is proceeding at relatively slow speeds. Pedestrian safety is improved further by the a pedestrian crosswalk sign placed right where a vehicle enters a modern roundabout. Even with this precaution, it is recommended that pedestrians always use caution and designated crosswalks.
Auto-pedestrian crash rates are usually lower at modern roundabouts than traffic signals. Also pedestrian injuries that do occur tend to be less serious because of the relatively low speeds demanded by modern roundabouts.
Properly designed modern roundabouts safely accommodate bicycles. Because vehicles are traveling at 15-25 mph, bicyclists can negotiate this traffic mode like a car.