Why are speed humps installed in places where slowing down can encourage pedestrians to cross the road?

What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Why are speed humps installed in places where slowing down can encourage pedestrians to cross the road?

I had a near miss last week due to a speed hump. The ones near where I work in Kempston have tiled tops and are breaking up. I braked approaching one and a group of youngish pedestrians on the pavement nearby took it as a cue to cross the road (never my intention, or indeed, thought) and stepped out in front of me, necessitating emergency braking to avoid hitting them. Yet another argument against these abominations perhaps.

Asked on 13 November 2010 by MB, via email

Answered by Honest John

Absolutely. On the Brighton to London Futurecar Run I had the pleasure of being directed down Brighton Road, Coulsdon (Coulsdon 'high street') and that has the best solution I have ever seen. Short cobbled patches across the road, narrow single lanes each way for vehicles, ample parking spaces; generally a high street that welcomes both vehicles and pedestrians and leads a driver to cut his speed to 20mph whatever the limit it.

Tags: speeding speed humps

Similar questions

Can you suggest an alternative to traffic calming measures currently used in London?

Last week your correspondent (SD, London) complained about a pinch point and speed humps and the effect they were having on his property. However, he did say they slowed the traffic. I'm sure you will...

What alternatives are there to speed humps for preventing speeding in residential areas?

I agree with what you say about speed humps. I class them as a punishment although I’ve not done anything wrong. However, most speed humps near me are there because local residents complain about traffic...

Why doesn't my local council fit time-controlled traffic lights outside a school instead of speed humps?

I presume that the proposal of road humps in Park Avenue, Stourport on Severn is made to ensure the safety of children at the new Primary School. I support measures to improve safety but consider that...