Thursday, December 27, 2012

Dangers of Some Traffic Control Methods

By Jessie Mccafferty


Each device meant for traffic control has advantages and drawbacks. Some which might be a mistake in one situation could be ideal in another. But this makes it particularly critical you meticulously look at the options before you choose which measures and devices are a good fit for your area. Whether you're with a local govt. that makes these decisions, or you are a citizen who wants to stay informed and help shape your community, a look at some of the hidden dangers in some traffic control measures will help you make better calls.

Speed bumps, for example, will slow down traffic. This is a fact. Most vehicles can't easily roll over such a bump going faster than the speed limit, which would sometimes be somewhere between 20 and 30 mph anywhere a speed bump might look like a good idea. Unfortunately, many automobiles have to virtually stop to go over them. This is inconvenient. But there's an even 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 road side, presumably in the trail where pedestrians bike or walk. Bikes have to slow to go over speed bumps, too. Some can't go over them, but need the type with openings to drive thru. Others swerve around. This leads to a hazardous situation. The bumps also slow emergency automobiles, regularly doubling the time ambulance and fire trucks take to get to waiting in need.

Rumble strips can cause problems for folks on bicycles who must travel over them. And physical devices like concrete obstructions between roads and bike trails can essentially trap bike riders in, which may be risky if they have to move out of the way quickly.

Signs like those from TraffiCalm don't cause vehicles and motorbikes to swerve or virtually stop to navigate a hump. They also will not prevent problems with foot traffic or bicyclists. The signs are installed with a regular speed limit sign. They display each driver's speed back as automobiles approach, causing the majority of drivers to naturally slow.




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