Visibility of Speed Humps at Night

Typically speed humps are installed to increase the safety in an area where speed and aggressive traffic is an issue. Installing them might seem like you’re making every effort to increase the safety in an area where it seems to be lacking. However, if not done properly, installing a speed hump may actually impair the safety that you’re trying to protect.

Let’s take, for example the visibility of speed humps. During the day, visibility typically is not an issue. Most humps are properly marked with signs and of course the daylight makes them relatively easy to spot. Regardless of the material they are made from, they’re pretty easy to see. However, consider the same location after nightfall.

If signage is not present to indicate that you are approaching a speed hump, asphalt humps are very difficult to see because they are the same color as the surface they’re installed on. These will typically blend into the surface, making them almost impossible to see in the dark. Painting is normally done to help, but paint will fade & chip. What you’re left with, is a hazard for pedestrians to trip over, and an obstacle that drivers aren’t aware is present.

Now let’s consider the visibility of a rubber hump instead. Rubber humps are manufactured with reflective yellow tape baked into the surface. Any light that is present will reflect off the glass beaded surface to illuminate a pattern across the top of the hump.

Regardless of the presence of signs, and even in a marginally lit environment, these humps will draw attention to themselves. Pedestrians will be aware of their placement, and drivers won’t be able to miss their reflective features. This creates a safer walking area, a safer driving area and an overall safer environment for all.

All things considered, it’s easy to see which choice will actually increase the safety, and which will hinder it.