Traffic Calming and Why It Is So Controversial

According to Wikipedia, “Traffic Calming” is intended to slow or reduce motor-vehicle traffic in order to improve the living conditions for residents as well as to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

While just about anything can spur on a debate these days, the subject of traffic calming seems to be of particular conflict for homeowners. For many, “traffic calming” can be accomplished by the installation of a simple device called a speed bump. Speed bumps will slow traffic, and make drivers more aware of their surroundings. Thus, safety is increased.

But to others, installing a device like this only adds frustration to an already unsafe situation. Many of those opposed to speed bumps cite that the reason they object to them is because the response time of emergency vehicles is greatly decreased when speed bumps are an obstacle. Others indicate that the jolt of driving over one causes damage to vehicles, and in extreme cases, even personal injury. To someone opposed to speed bumps, not only are living conditions not improved, but safety is an even bigger issue than it was prior to the speed bumps.

Something to consider is that in many of these instances, the speed bump being referred to is a very aggressive bump, usually more than 2.25″ high. This makes for a very abrupt bump and if not marked clearly, can potentially cause damages. A bump of this height will normally bring traffic to a halt, and is typically too aggressive for a residential street.

But there is a product out there that can perform the same function, but do it in a much less aggressive way. This is called a speed hump.

A speed hump isn’t quite as high as a bump, and typically provides much longer contact between the hump and the tire. This means there’s a much smoother transition between pavement and hump. Vehicles pass over it more easily than a bump, but not so much so that they go unnoticed. It may just provide a solution that keeps both parties happy.

There are always two sides to consider in any debate. When it comes to a debate about traffic calming, a speed hump can offer a sensible solution that’s not so aggressive that it causes trouble, but just assertive enough to slow speedy drivers.