What is a speed bump?
4 Answers
Speed bumps, also known as speed humps, are traffic calming devices installed on roads to slow down passing vehicles. Introduction to speed bumps: They are generally strip-shaped, but some are dot-shaped; the material is mainly rubber, but sometimes metal; they are usually painted in alternating yellow and black colors to attract visual attention, with a slightly raised surface to achieve the purpose of slowing down vehicles. Locations where speed bumps are used: They are typically installed at road intersections, industrial and mining areas, schools, residential community entrances, and other sections where vehicles need to slow down or where traffic accidents are prone to occur. They are specialized safety devices designed to reduce the speed of motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles.
Every time I drive over those concrete bumps, I know I've encountered speed bumps. These devices are deliberately laid out as raised strips on the road, typically found at the entrances of residential areas, near schools, or hospitals. Driving over them gives a noticeable jolt, reminding us to slow down in advance. These things aren't costly but are extremely effective, especially when driving at night—without speed bumps, one might speed right through an intersection. I remember one rainy night when I almost rear-ended someone at an intersection without speed bumps; now, seeing speed bumps actually makes me feel safer.
From the perspective of urban road safety, speed bumps are actually an intelligent design. They physically force vehicles to reduce speed, typically installed at intersections with poor visibility or before pedestrian crossings. When drivers see the deformed road ahead, they must brake immediately, avoiding rear-end collisions caused by sudden stops. Numerous international studies show this design can reduce accident rates by over 20%. Speed bumps vary in shape across regions—some have continuous undulations while others feature single protrusions—the key is making drivers uncomfortable enough to slow down without damaging the vehicle's undercarriage.
As someone who frequently teaches beginners to drive, speed bumps are essential practical knowledge to cover. These are intentionally placed hump-shaped obstacles on the road designed to force vehicles to slow down. New drivers often react slowly, and the early warning provided by speed bumps helps prevent speeding through intersections. When I teach, I deliberately take them to roads with speed bumps for practice, advising that releasing the accelerator without braking is the smoothest way to pass over them. Although passengers may feel the bump, it's crucial for pedestrian safety.
