What are speed bumps?

Speeding on residential streets is a common concern reported by citizens. Speed bumps are often requested because they are perceived as a quick and effective solution to speeding. Speed bumps are ridges of pavement, usually 3 inches high, placed across a roadway. Theoretically, the bumps are intended to be uncomfortable to drive over if crossed too quickly, and should force cars to slow down as they pass over them. However, speed bump installations have been associated with maintenance, safety, and liability concerns.

Are speed bumps safe?

Tests of speed bumps raise questions about their safety and effectiveness. Test results indicate that:

• Speed bumps do not significantly reduce vehicle speeds once the vehicle leaves the speed bump.
• Speed bumps present a potential hazard to all vehicles and an immediate danger to bicyclists, motorcyclists, and emergency vehicles.
• Traffic volumes increase on adjacent streets since drivers tend to avoid streets with speed bumps.

What about Liability?

Results of various studies have raised concerns about the potential dangers of speed bumps. Speed bumps are not recognized by the State of Colorado as an official traffic control device. Injuries caused by speed bumps may result in significant additional liability for the city. For these reasons, the City of Englewood does not use speed bumps on public streets and alleys.