How Speed Bumps Are Installed
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Speed bumps, temporary barriers designed to reduce vehicle speeds on roads, require a careful installation process involving citizen petitions, funding, and data collection before implementation.
Speed Bump Installation Steps
unimat-traffic.com
The installation of speed bumps involves a multi-step process that requires community involvement and local government approval:
- A citizen must submit a petition requesting speed hump installation on a specific street
- Residents collect signatures from the majority of affected citizens to support the petition
- A citizen representative gathers funds to cover the installation costs
- Traffic data, including volume and speed, must be provided to the county for assessment
- Once approved and funded, the county schedules installation between April and September1
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Design and Placement Factors
unimat-traffic.com
When installing speed bumps, careful consideration is given to their design and placement to maximize effectiveness and safety. These traffic calming devices are typically spaced 275 feet (about 90 yards) apart and range in height from three to six inches1. Strategic positioning is crucial, with bumps generally installed at least three feet above ground level and away from drainage systems and intersections1. To enhance visibility, they can be placed under street lighting when necessary. The specific dimensions and configurations of speed bumps vary depending on the road width and traffic conditions, with options available for single-lane and double-lane applications1.
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Types of Recycled Rubber Bumps
unimat-traffic.com
Several types of recycled rubber speed bumps and humps are available for different road conditions and traffic management needs:
- Economy Recycled Rubber Heavy Duty Speed Bumps: Available in lengths from 6 to 25 feet, with heights of 2 inches and widths of 12 inches1
- Premium Recycled Rubber Safety-Striped Speed Bumps: Ranging from 39 to 254 inches in length, 2 inches in height, and 13.7 inches in width1
- Recycled Rubber Speed Humps: Smaller profile with 1.25-inch height, available in lengths from 18.75 inches to 20 feet1
- Heavy Duty Rubber Speed Humps: Robust design with 2-inch height and 3-inch width, available in lengths up to 20 feet for double lanes1
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Effectiveness and Drawbacks
unimat-traffic.com
While effective at reducing traffic speeds and improving road safety, speed bumps have some drawbacks. They can adversely affect emergency vehicle response times and may cause minor damage to vehicles traveling at normal speeds1. Public opinion on speed bumps is mixed, with some viewing them as a nuisance and choosing to ignore them or change their routes1. Studies, such as one conducted by the University of Connecticut, have highlighted these concerns1. Despite these issues, civil engineers continue to implement speed bumps as a safety precaution, recognizing their role in traffic calming. However, it's important to note that speed bumps are not the only solution for improving road safety, and various alternative traffic control products are available1.
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