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Speed Humps:
Speed humps are paved (usually asphalt) and approximately 76 to 102 mm (3 to 4 in) high at their center, and extend the full width of the street with height tapering near the drain gutter to allow unimpeded bicycle travel. Speed humps should not be confused with the speed “bump” that is often found in mall parking lots. There are several designs for speed humps. The traditional 3.7-m (12-ft) hump has a design speed of 24 to 32 km/h (15 to 20 mi/h), a 4.3-m (14-ft) hump a few miles per hour higher, and a 6.7-m (22-ft) table has a design speed of 40 to 48 km/h (25 to 30 mi/h). The longer humps are much gentler for larger vehicles.
| Photo by Dan Burden
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| Speed humps are frequently used on some residential streets to reduce speeds. However, they can create unwanted noise if they are too severe, or cause motorists to slow down more than is necessary. |
• Reduce vehicle speeds. Raised measures tend to have the most predictable
speed reduction impacts.
• Enhance the pedestrian environment at pedestrian crossings. |
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• Do not use if on a sharp curve or if the street is on a steep grade.
• If the street is a bus route or primary emergency route, the design must
be coordinated with operators. Usually, some devices are acceptable if used
prudently — one device may be appropriate and may serve the primary need
(e.g., if there is a particular location along a street that is most in need
of slowing traffic and improving pedestrian conditions).
• The aesthetics of speed humps and speed tables can be improved through
the use of color and specialized paving materials.
• Noise may increase, particularly if trucks use the route regularly.
• May create drainage problems on some streets.
• Speed humps and tables should be properly designed to reduce the chance
of back problems or other physical discomfort experienced by vehicle occupants. |
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| The cost for each speed hump is approximately $1,000. Speed tables are $2,000 to $15,000, depending on drainage conditions and materials used. |
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