QUOTE (Andy Capp @ Feb 23 2011, 10:31 PM)
I suspect speed humps are a 'necessary evil', but they come at a cost. I prefer the speed awareness signs that flash on when you are going too fast.
I suspect many motorists who pay lip service to speed limits (ie 30mph means 35-37mph dunnit?) prefer the flashing signs coz they have absolutely no impact on said motorist... Flashing sign? Big deal... it doesn't slow the majority down.. This sort of speed management tool has no effect on this motorist.. No nasty bump to negotiate, no recording of registration plate for Mr Plod.. ignore.... Carry on... (A bit pointless really)
Speed humps are a bit of a blunt tool but they can be effective in lowering average speeds.... at a cost... They're often introduced following political pressure from local Councillors who whip up a storm with local residents saying that the 'magic bumps' will result in every car going past their house at snail's pace.. The reality isn't quite like that.
Problems with them are noise (cars, buses and lorries bumping over them day and night) and repetitive strain injuries to vehicle suspensions.... The 'cushion' types are the default hump these days so that bus drivers don't get sore backs and so that ambulances aren't slowed, but they have no effect on motorbikes/scooters. And.. if you have a Lambo (or a Corsa wiv lowered suspension) you may find that your backside drags across the top of the humps...
The ONLY really effective traffic calmer is a PC with a speed gun...