Cost of Installing a Speed Bump
The cost of installing a speed bump varies depending on several factors such as location, materials used, labor costs, and any additional features like signage or lighting. On average, installing a speed bump can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per bump. In some cases, more elaborate installations can cost upwards of $5,000.
New Name for Speed Bumps
The term «speed bumps» is often being replaced with the more general term «traffic calming devices» in urban planning contexts. This broader term encompasses a variety of devices designed to slow down traffic, including speed humps, cushions, and tables.
How Damaging Are Speed Bumps?
Speed bumps can cause several types of damage, depending on their design and placement:
- Vehicle Damage: Repeatedly driving over speed bumps, especially at higher speeds, can cause wear and tear on a vehicle’s suspension, alignment, tires, and exhaust system.
- Emergency Response Times: Speed bumps can slow down emergency vehicles, potentially leading to delayed response times.
- Noise Pollution: Vehicles braking and accelerating over speed bumps can increase noise levels in residential areas.
- Potential Health Issues: For individuals with certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain or spinal issues, driving over speed bumps can be uncomfortable or even harmful.
Are Speed Bumps a Good Idea?
The effectiveness of speed bumps is context-dependent:
- Pros:
- Slows Traffic: Speed bumps are effective in reducing vehicle speeds, particularly in residential areas, school zones, and other areas where pedestrian safety is a concern.
- Inexpensive: Compared to other traffic calming measures, speed bumps are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
- Cons:
- Impact on Emergency Vehicles: As mentioned, they can slow down emergency response times.
- Driver Discomfort: Speed bumps can be annoying or uncomfortable for drivers, especially if they are poorly marked or unexpectedly placed.
- Potential for Avoidance: Drivers may take alternate routes to avoid streets with speed bumps, possibly increasing traffic in other areas.
What Do the English Call Speed Bumps?
In the United Kingdom, speed bumps are often referred to as «sleeping policemen.» The term reflects the idea that these devices are always «on duty» to slow down traffic.
Difference Between Speed Bumps and Speed Humps
- Speed Bumps:
- Height: Typically 3 to 4 inches tall.
- Length: Generally shorter in length, around 1 to 3 feet.
- Effect: Causes a more abrupt slowing of vehicles, often requiring drivers to reduce speed to 5-10 mph.
- Speed Humps:
- Height: Usually about 3 to 4 inches tall as well, but they have a longer span.
- Length: Can be 10 to 14 feet long.
- Effect: More gradual than speed bumps, allowing vehicles to pass over them at 15-20 mph without much discomfort. They are designed to slow down traffic more gently than speed bumps.
In summary, while speed bumps are good for significantly reducing speed in high-risk areas, speed humps are preferred in situations where a smoother reduction in speed is desired, such as residential streets where moderate speeds are acceptable.