New study maps the most stressful roundabouts in London
A new study analysing the most stressful roundabouts in London has ranked Hammersmith Flyover, West London in first place.
The research, conducted by leading UK vehicle lease firm Select Car Leasing, determined the most stressful roundabouts in the UK by comparing a number of different factors, including recorded incident data, the complexity of each layout, and the maximum speed limits of entry roads.
When looking specifically at the English capital, Hammersmith Flyover claimed the top spot, with an overall score of 47.84/60.
The roundabout has the highest number of recorded incidents in the study, with 402 in total. This consists of 330 slight, 70 serious, and 2 fatal collisions.
It’s located beneath the Hammersmith Flyover and surrounds a major transport hub, including Hammersmith underground station, which means it sees a constant flow of vehicles, buses, cyclists, and pedestrians. With such a variety of road users all in one place, it’s no surprise accidents are common.
The Crooked Billet Interchange in Walthamstow, East London, was ranked the second worst with an overall score of 43.96/60.
The roundabout also has a notably high number of recorded incidents, with 229 in total. These include 206 slight, 20 serious, and 3 fatal.
The interchange sees a constant stream of traffic from all directions, as it connects key routes such as the A112, A406, and B179. As there are several major roads feeding into the roundabout, the pressure on drivers can be intense.
Appearing in third place is the notoriously busy Hyde Park Corner, with an overall score of 41.01/60. The roundabout has had 228 recorded incidents, including 191 slight, 36 serious, and 1 fatal.
Its high traffic volume, multiple entry and exit points, lack of clear lane markings and the need for quick decision-making to add to the pressure of successfully navigating this roundabout.
Completing the top five are Redbridge Roundabout, East London in fourth place with a score of 37.81/60, and Target Roundabout in Ealing, West London, with a score of 34.23/60.
The top 10 most stressful roundabouts in London:
Hammersmith Flyover in Hammersmith and Fulham, West London – 47.84/60
Crooked Billet Interchange in Walthamstow, East London – 43.96/60
Hyde Park Corner in City of Westminster, London – 41.01/60
Redbridge Roundabout in Redbridge, East London – 37.81/60
Target Roundabout in Ealing, West London – 34.23/60
Bulls Bridge Roundabout in Hounslow, West London – 33.97/60
Chiswick Roundabout in Chiswick, West London – 32.98/60
White Hart Roundabout in Ealing, West London – 30.31/60
Brent Cross Interchange in Barnet, North London – 27.04/60
Staples Corner in Brent, North West London – 21.38/60