According to the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), a New York study found fewer car-cyclist conflicts occurred at protected intersections compared to those with a dedicated turning lane and specific bike signals.
The Dutch-style junction isn’t a European exclusive. Some U.S cities have already given the unconventional layout a try, and the hits don’t lie because there are fewer of them. At a protected junction, the islands force cars to go around the new safety zone. Although the primary focus is to offset bicycle traffic from vehicle traffic, the separated berth provides additional protection and safety for pedestrians, strollers, wheelchairs, etc.