Traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with almost 40,000 deaths every year due to motor vehicle accidents. To reduce this number and make our roads safer, cities have begun installing speed bumps, also known as traffic calming devices, at some intersections throughout the country.

Are these rubber speed bumps effective at slowing traffic? In short, yes!

The benefit to use Rubber Speed BumpsRubber speed bumps are built specifically to slow down vehicles in driveways and on roadways that otherwise are not designed to handle large amounts of traffic. If you are considering rubber speed bumps to slow down traffic flow on your road, read this article before buying your first set of rubber speed bumps.

Pros and Cons of Rubber Speed Bumps

There are plenty of advantages to using rubber speed bumps. Some of these include:

  • They are less expensive than other traffic calming measures.
  • They are pretty easy to install as they require no special equipment.
  • They can be used on both asphalt and concrete surfaces.
  • They are weather resistant and will not degrade in sunlight or cold temperatures.
  • They are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional speed bumps made of concrete or asphalt.
  • They have a smooth surface that is less likely to damage vehicles.
  • They are effective at slowing traffic without causing undue hardship for drivers.

The advantages of Rubber Speed BumpsThough there are many benefits to installing rubber speed bumps, it is hard to measure their effectiveness because there is no standardized testing for them. Some say that they only make sense in residential areas where cars travel slower anyway, and others say that their effectiveness is limited to slowing cars going 20 miles per hour or less. What does seem clear is that these don’t work well when drivers can see them coming from a distance and drive over them with ease. They also don’t work well on steep inclines or sharp turns.

How much do they cost?

You can find rubber speed bumps for around $20 each. That is not bad, considering concrete ones cost ten times as much. But are they effective? It depends on how you use them. If you plop them down in the middle of the street, they won’t do much good. However, if you place them strategically, they can slow traffic effectively. For example, try putting one or two near a stop sign to discourage drivers from speeding up before turning.

Should you install them yourself or hire a contractor?

Rubber speed bumps are a low-cost solution to slow traffic, but they must be properly installed to be effective.

The process to install Rubber Speed BumpsIf you are considering installing them yourself, be sure to measure the area first and calculate the number of bumps needed. You will also need to ensure the bumps are spaced far enough apart so that vehicles do not bottom out when driving over them. It is also important to choose a location that is visible to drivers.

Not confident in your DIY skills? It is probably best to hire a contractor with experience with this type of project.

Things to keep in mind when buying rubber speed bumps

If you are looking to purchase rubber speed bumps, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • First, consider the size and weight of the vehicles that will be using the bumps.
  • You also need to think about the frequency of traffic — will the bumps need to withstand constant use?
  • Next, take into account the surface on which the bumps will be placed — will they need to be anchored down?
  • Do not forget about the climate — will extreme temperatures or weather conditions affect the bumps?
  • Now, look at the price and compare it to your budget.
  • Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of quality and performance.
  • Finally, make sure that the company you purchase from has a good return policy in case you are not satisfied with the product.

So, what’s the verdict? Are rubber speed bumps effective at slowing traffic? Yes! They are an effective way to slow down traffic. While they may not be the most durable option, they are a safe and effective way to keep your community safe.

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Commonwealth Paving, 136 Outerloop, Louisville, Kentucky 40214
Phone: 502-459-7283, Fax: 502-456-2678

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