Speed humps are more unpopular than roadworks according to new research by motoring group the AA. It says that motorists’ loathing for speed humps has not diminished in the three decades since they were introduced, even when re-engineered as ‘speed cushions’ or ‘tables’.

 

Speed humps are cited as the most annoying road feature among 62% of 24,070 motorists quizzed last month, with 59% stating roadworks.

 

The AA claims that speed humps bring added risks for those delivering groceries and passengers on board buses.

 

According to the research half of all drivers encounter at least one speed hump each day and 15% of motorists drive over more than 10 a day. 

 

Speed humps were introduced in 1983 and have remained prevalent in the UK despite the previous Government launching a campaign in 2011 to ‘dump the hump’. This, according to the AA, allowed councils to put in place 20MPH schemes on residential roads and to use variable speed limits outside schools.

 

David Richards of AA Drivetech, the training group, said: “Traffic calming should be well designed, without launching vehicles into the air.” He adds that those approaching speed humps should go slow on the approach, use their brakes and let their vehicle’s momentum take it over the hump.

 

(Photo: Stephen Craven and licensed for reuse under this Creative Common Licence)