Three Reasons to Install Speed Humps

Some traffic calming devices are a standard in any area. For example, it’s common to see parking curbs in a parking lot. But when do you decide you need more than that? Let’s consider installation of Speed Humps. At what point do you recognize that there is a problem, and that Speed Humps is the way to fix it?

Here are some thoughts about just that. If you can identify with any of these situations, then perhaps it’s time to consider installing a speed hump in your area.

Open length of road – Although a nice, wide, open length of road may seem like a dream rather than a problem, it can very quickly become the source of your biggest concern. Whether in a residential area, or simply a long aisle in a parking garage, there is reason for concern. Driving a vehicle can seem confining to some, and it’s human instinct to escape from confining situations. A wide, open area with a destination to reach can appeal to this characteristic in anyone. Drivers have a tendency to reach for that far off destination and tend to get a little heavy-footed in the process. It’s simply human nature, but it can lead to big problems; driving too fast, lack of focus on surroundings, decreased reaction time; all of these can lead to tragedy if left unchecked.

Adding speed humps helps keep the driver focused by drawing their attention to a physical distraction. It’s difficult to get caught up in speeding to that stop sign 100 yards away when you have to cross 3 speed humps before you get there.

Occasional heavy traffic – This can be one of the hardest problems to resolve. If heavy traffic is common in an area, it’s relatively easy to slow drivers, because there’s a good chance those drivers frequent the area, and they’ll take heed to attempts to slow traffic. They’ll become more aware of signs and will be familiar with the way traffic usually flows.

However, if you’re in an area that only occasionally experiences heavy traffic, it can be much more difficult to slow drivers. Perhaps you live close to a school that only experiences heavier traffic during special events like sports or plays. Most of those drivers are only there because they’re visiting. They don’t know the normal traffic pattern, and probably won’t notice the speed limit signs.

Speed humps can help keep the traffic moving, but slow them down so that they’re not speeding through trying to make it in the building before the game starts. A speed hump can be a gentle reminder that “just because you don’t live here, doesn’t mean that others don’t”.

Speed humps can also help for businesses located near event arenas. Perhaps your parking lot is used when there’s a hockey game in the arena next to your shop. Or there might be a concert down the street and your lot inevitably gets filled with non-patrons. Speed humps can help keep excited fans from getting a little too overzealous with their driving.

Pedestrians – One of the most common and most important reasons to consider installing any type of traffic control device is of course, pedestrians. Any area that involves a human being potentially crossing the path of a vehicle is a prime location for traffic calming. Too often pedestrians are injured on their way to their vehicle, or crossing a street, or simply leaving school. Speed humps offer a temporary or permanent solution.

Drivers are forced to slow down and become more aware of their surroundings. Though a hump allows them to continue without stopping, it will ease their speed and provide at least a few more seconds of precious reaction time. Drivers have more time to stop, pedestrians have more time to acknowledge vehicles, and the area becomes safer.

This is especially useful near school crossings, outside store entrances and at crosswalks. In areas where there is constant foot traffic, speed humps can help provide more safety for everyone.

Regardless of what your reasoning may be for installing speed humps, they are a great solution to a whole list of problems. Traffic can be gently slowed, safety can be increased, and residents and patrons are happy.