Controlling traffic speed in a private community or commercial parking lot is a challenge. A first step would be the installation of signage. Another action that can be taken is to install an impediment in the road to reduce the speed of vehicular traffic to an appropriate level.

Two impediment options commonly considered to maintain an appropriate traffic speed are to install a Speed Hump or a Speed Bump. The question then becomes, what is the difference between these two options.

When deciding on an approach, considerations should go beyond the regular vehicle traffic that occurs on a normal day. There should also be an awareness that emergency and city maintenance vehicles will need to use these roads or thoroughfares.

Speed Bump

A Speed Bump is a single impediment piece attached directly to the road. A Speed Bump will generally slow traffic to 5 miles per hour. Installation of a Speed Bump is a single piece attached directly to the road conforming to the contour of the road's surface.

Speed Hump

A Speed Hump is more gradual than a Speed Bump. There are three parts to a Speed Hump. There is the core and, additionally, male and female end caps. The end caps are installed on the front and back of the hump. This design causes the Speed Hump to have a more smooth transition.

The speed of vehicles is reduced to 15 or 20 miles per hour. Emergency vehicles, such as an ambulance, police car or fire truck, are not as drastically impaired from a Speed Hump as from a Speed Bump.

As we stated in our post Installation and Use of a Rubber Speed Hump

This can be a crucial requirement on private community roads and commercial parking lots to reduce risk of traffic accidents.

Signage

In addition to the use of a Speed Hump or a Speed Bump, another effective tool is the addition of signage. Signs further protect the walking or cycling public. Signs are an effective visual for walking traffic, cyclists and motorists.

If you require traffic signs, speed humps or speed bumps, contact us at Traffic Safety Direct. We can assist you in your selection or develop a custom solution to meet your specific needs.