Introduction
Speed bumps or speed humps are common features of roads and highways found around the world. They are used to reduce the speed of traffic, which can improve safety, reduce noise, and decrease air pollution. But did you know that these speed bumps are not called the same thing in different countries? We’ll explore the various names of speed bumps in different countries, as well as the different designs and purposes of these speed control features. Read on to learn more about speed bumps around the world.
What Are Speed Bumps?
Speed bumps, also known as speed humps, are raised elements of pavement typically used to regulate speed on a street or road. They are designed to slow down vehicles as they pass over them, so that drivers are more aware of their speed and to reduce the possibility of accidents. Speed bumps are usually made from asphalt or concrete and can vary in size and design, depending on the area they are installed in.
Speed Bumps Around the World
Speed bumps, also known as sleeping policemen, are a common form of traffic calming measure used in many countries around the world. They are typically used to reduce the speed of vehicles and control traffic at intersections and in residential areas. Speed bumps are usually surfaced of plastic or concrete, and are usually found in the center of the road.
In some countries, speed bumps go by different names. In India, they are called “speed breakers” while in Germany they are referred to as “humps.” In the United Kingdom, speed bumps are called “cushions” while in France they are referred to as “rahs.” In South Africa, the term “sleeping policemen” is used for speed bumps. No matter where you are in the world, speed bumps are an important traffic calming measure that is used to protect both pedestrians and drivers.
Speed Bumps in the United States
Speed bumps are a common sight in the United States, used in both residential and commercial areas to reduce vehicle speeds and increase safety. These small raised bumps, which are also sometimes referred to as speed humps, are typically made of asphalt, rubber, or concrete. Depending on the area, speed bumps can range from 3-8 inches in height and are usually spaced a few feet apart. In the US, speed bumps are generally referred to as speed bumps, although some people also call them speed humps or speed tables.
Speed bumps are an effective way to reduce vehicle speed, but they can also be a nuisance for drivers, causing noise, vibration, and damage to cars. It is important to follow all speed limit signs, even when there are no speed bumps, to ensure the safety of all drivers.
Speed Bumps in Europe
Speed bumps, also known as ‘sleeping policemen’ in Europe, are road features designed to slow down traffic in certain areas. They are commonly used in residential areas, school zones, and commercial areas to reduce vehicle speed and ensure safety.
European speed bumps, or ‘sleeping policemen’, come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They may be long and narrow, short and wide, or triangle-shaped. The size and shape of the speed bump will depend on the traffic levels and the desired speed reduction. In addition, some European cities have ‘rumble strips’, which are longitudinal strips that create vibrations to warn drivers if they are going too fast.
Speed Bumps in Asia
Speed bumps, also known as speed humps, are used all over the world to slow down traffic and control the speed of vehicles. In Asian countries, they are called various names such as ‘sleeping policemen’ or ‘traffic calming bumps’. These speed bumps can be found in various shapes and sizes to meet the needs of the local conditions.
Speed bumps in Asian countries are mainly used to slow down traffic in residential areas or near schools. They can be made of concrete or asphalt and they can come in various sizes and shapes such as round, flat, or long. Additionally, they can be painted with various colors to make them more visible to drivers. In some countries, the speed bumps can be adjustable, meaning they can be raised when traffic needs to be slowed down and lowered when traffic is not a problem.
Overall, speed bumps are an effective way to control the speed of vehicles, especially in residential areas. They are widely used in Asian countries and are known by various names such as traffic calming bumps or sleeping policemen. Speed bumps come in various shapes and sizes to meet the local needs and are usually made of concrete or asphalt. Additionally, they can also be painted with bright colors to make them easily visible to drivers.
Speed Bumps in Australia
Speed bumps are a common sight in Australia, known as ‘speed humps’ or ‘sleeping policemen’. These bumps are used to regulate speed and reduce noise in residential areas. There are two types of speed humps in Australia – the traditional speed hump, which is a flat-topped hump, and the extended speed hump, which is a raised platform with an extended plateau. Both types are designed to slow vehicles and alert drivers of their speed.
In addition, Australia also has the ‘raised crosswalk’ which is a speed hump with a raised crosswalk. These are used in areas where pedestrians commonly cross the road, and are designed to further reduce speed and make it easier for pedestrians to cross. Raised crosswalks consist of a flat-topped hump with a raised pedestrian walkway running across the road.
Summary
Speed bumps have become a common sight in cities, towns, and neighborhoods around the world. They are used to slow down traffic and to protect pedestrians and cyclists from reckless drivers. What many people may not know is that speed bumps have different names in different countries. In the United States, they are most commonly referred to as speed bumps, while in Europe they are known as sleeping policemen. In Asia, they are called speed humps. In Australia, they are referred to as speed cushions. No matter the name, speed bumps are a great way to keep our roads safer for everyone.