Speed Humps

Description
A wave-shaped raised pavement that typically extends the full width of the street. The combination of different heights, lengths, and approach ramps will affect the speed a vehicle can comfortably go over the hump; therefore, a speed hump can be designed for a desired speed at which it may be navigated without causing discomfort to the driver or damage to the vehicle. Discomfort increases as speed over the hump increases. Typically placed in series and spaced as a function of the desired mid-point speed between devices.


Issues Addressed

  • Speeding


Applications

  • Residential, local streets.
  • Not allowed on collector & arterial streets.
  • Mid-block placement, not at an intersection.
  • Works well with neckdowns and chokers.

Advantages 

  • Cost effective speed control.
  • Self-enforcing.
  • Deters cut-through traffic and reduces corresponding noise.
  • Does not impact parking.
  • Requires minimum maintenance.
  • Bicycle friendly.


Disadvantages

  • May shift traffic to parallel streets.
  • May cause an increase in noise at speed hump, especially on streets with a high volume of bus and delivery truck traffic.
  • May increase emergency vehicle response.
  • Requires signage and markings that may be considered unsightly.

Asphalt speed hump with shark's tooth markings


  

Stamped asphalt in Cupertino, CA



Stamped gray colored asphalt


Speed Bump vs Speed Hump
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