Seagull intersection

Seagull Continuous-Green-T Turbo-T Intersection right hand traffic

Seagull intersection CGTL on Broadway in Everett, Washington (flickr18779519629)

Florida CGTL Road Sign (Continuous Green Through Lane).svg

Seagull intersection

A seagull intersection is a type of three-way junction used in road design to manage traffic flow. It is named for its resemblance to a seagull in flight when viewed from above. This intersection design is particularly useful in areas where a minor road intersects with a major road.

Design and Function

The seagull intersection features a unique layout where the minor road forms a T-junction with the major road, but with additional lanes and traffic islands to facilitate safer and more efficient turning movements. The key components of a seagull intersection include:

• A central traffic island on the major road, which separates opposing lanes of traffic.
• Dedicated left-turn lanes for vehicles turning from the major road onto the minor road.
• A right-turn lane for vehicles turning from the minor road onto the major road, often controlled by a traffic signal.

The design aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve road safety by minimizing conflict points and providing clear paths for turning vehicles.

Advantages

Seagull intersections offer several advantages over traditional T-junctions, including:

• Improved safety: The separation of turning lanes and the use of traffic islands reduce the likelihood of traffic collisions.
• Enhanced traffic flow: The dedicated turning lanes and traffic signals help manage traffic more efficiently, reducing delays.
• Cost-effectiveness: Compared to more complex intersection designs, seagull intersections can be a cost-effective solution for managing traffic at minor road intersections.

Disadvantages

Despite their benefits, seagull intersections also have some drawbacks:

• Space requirements: The design requires more space than a standard T-junction, which may not be feasible in all locations.
• Complexity: The additional lanes and traffic signals can make the intersection more complex for drivers to navigate, potentially leading to confusion.

Examples

Seagull intersections are commonly found in various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. They are often used in suburban and rural areas where a minor road intersects with a busy major road.

See Also

• Roundabout
• Traffic circle
• Diamond interchange
• Road safety