Reasons to Consider Speed Bumps

While the installation of speed bumps can sometimes be a controversial issue, there are times when they are the most logical solution. Here are a few situations where the addition of speed bumps can drastically reduce speeds, and potentially save lives.

Parking lots – While parking lots certainly serve a purpose by providing off-street parking for patrons, they can also be a maze of disaster and potential injury. Under normal circumstances, pedestrians avoid moving vehicles. However in parking areas, pedestrians are forced to interact with a constant flow of traffic.

While the entire parking facility leaves little to be desired for safety, particularly unsafe areas are near store entrances. Obviously this is where the highest pedestrian traffic exists. But it’s also where a large portion of vehicle traffic exists as well. Many store owners will insist on painted areas and perhaps even stop signs to help slow traffic. However many times these “suggestions” are missed or sometimes blatantly ignored as the driver searches for a parking spot.

Adding a physical distraction helps to focus the driver on the obstacles in front of them and helps to make a precarious situation, a little less hazardous.

Stop Signs – As mentioned previously, stop signs have become more of a suggestion than an actual traffic control measure. Drivers tend to roll through them, or sometimes don’t even slow down as they barrel right through them. In such a fast paced environment, shaving a few seconds off transit times can make all the difference, and not always in a positive way.

Adding a speed bump just before an intersection or stop sign can force the driver to slow, or in most cases, come to a stop. Once their speed has been slowed, it’s much easier to get them to actually stop at the stop sign.

Crosswalks – Many times, the same situation occurs with crosswalks as it does with stop signs. Crosswalks are a very difficult place to control traffic. The area must be kept free of obstructions to allow for easy foot traffic, but must also allow vehicles to easily pass. Most crosswalks are indicated with bright white painting on the surface. Some even offer a stop sign to help keep drivers in check. However, as discussed before, these are merely suggestions to a driver in a hurry.

Adding a speed bump within the approach of a crosswalk will force drivers to slow and recognize the obstacle ahead. Pedestrians can feel safer that oncoming traffic has at least been given a few more seconds of reaction time.

Although interaction between human and moving vehicle should be avoided, there are times when it can’t be avoided. In these situations, a speed bump can offer a safer, more pedestrian-friendly environment.