Each device meant for traffic control has benefits and disadvantages. Some which might be terrible in one situation might be ideal in another. But this makes it especially important you meticulously look at the options before deciding which measures and devices are a good fit for your area. Whether you’re with a local government that makes these choices, or you are a citizen who would like to stay informed and help shape your community, a look at some of the concealed dangers in some traffic slowing measures can help you make better calls.
Speed bumps, for instance, will slow down traffic. This is an undeniable fact. Most automobiles can’t smoothly roll over such a bump going quicker than the speed limit, which would typically be somewhere between 20 and 30 mph anywhere a speed bump might appear like a brilliant idea. Sadly, many cars have to just about stop to go over them. This is awkward. But there’s a much bigger problem, and that’s the capability for harm.
One danger of using speed bumps is that some drivers will simply swerve to avoid them, driving off the side of the road, doubtless in the trail where people cycle or walk. Motorbikes have to slow to go over speed bumps, too. Some can’t go over them, but need the type with gaps to drive through. Others swerve around. This makes for a dangerous situation. The bumps also slow emergency automobiles, often doubling the time ambulance and fire trucks take to get to those in need.
Rumble strips may cause problems for pedestrians on cycles who must travel over them. And physical devices like concrete obstructions between roads and bike paths can essentially trap cycle riders in, which may be dangerous if they need to move out of the way swiftly.
Signs like those from TraffiCalm don’t cause vehicles and bikes to swerve or virtually stop to navigate a hump. They also will not cause problems with foot traffic or bicyclists. The signs are installed with a regular speed limit sign. They display each driver’s speed back as cars approach, causing nearly all drivers to naturally slow.
Click here for a traffic slowing measure that won’t cause other traffic problems and contact TraffiCalm Systems today.