The Role of the Speed Ramp in Preventing Accidents in South African Communities
In South African communities, where high pedestrian activity often intersects with fast-moving traffic, the speed ramp plays a crucial role in enhancing road safety. Bustling townships, residential areas, closed communities, and schools require these traffic-calming devices since they have proven to be effective and affordable in reducing speed and, more importantly, saving lives. Below, our professionals at Armco Superlite explore these vital implements and explain their importance in pedestrian-sensitive areas.
Speed Ramp Solutions that Save Lives
The speed ramp is engineered to physically slow vehicles down, especially in areas where the risk of pedestrian injury is high. Its presence sends a clear signal to drivers to reduce their speed, lowering the chances of severe accidents. Many South African communities and municipalities have turned to these ramps to address the unfortunate incidents of road fatalities, especially in high-foot-traffic areas.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), over 12,000 road fatalities occur annually in South Africa, with pedestrians making up 43% of these deaths. A significant number of these incidents occur in urban and peri-urban areas, where driver speed and lack of proper traffic-calming measures are crucial concerns.
5 Locations Where Speed Bumps Should be Installed?
There are several scenarios where the installation of a speed ramp can make a life-saving difference. For example:
- Near Schools and Creches: Children under 14 are particularly vulnerable on the roads, often crossing streets without assessing imminent danger. Installing speed bumps near educational institutions helps ensure that vehicles decrease speed in these high-risk zones.
- Taxi Ranks and Bus Stops: These are areas of constant pedestrian movement. Speed bumps near these spots help protect commuters who may be walking between vehicles or crossing busy streets.
- Residential Neighbourhoods and Gated Communities: Gated community streets and suburban and township roads often double as play areas for children and communal spots for families. Ramps help create a safer environment by controlling vehicle speed in these areas.
- Community Shopping Centres and Marketplaces: Busy parking areas and trading zones attract both shoppers and drivers. Speed bumps here can dramatically reduce the risk of injury in crowded, often chaotic spaces.
- Hospitals and Clinics: Slower traffic speeds are essential near healthcare facilities as they protect patients and staff and reduce noise pollution.
The Impact of Speed Humps on Accident Rates
A study by The Journal of Transport & Health found that the introduction of road speed bumps in high-risk areas showed a 23% increase in pedestrian safety. Similar projects saw a combined 40% drop in local accident rates following their installation.
Furthermore, other studies conclude that traffic-calming measures, including speed bumps, have reduced average vehicle speeds up to 40%, and pedestrian-related accidents decreased considerably in zones where these measures were implemented.
Not only do these ramps reduce vehicle speed, but their very presence also encourages greater driver awareness. Unlike conventional traffic signs, these ramps are physical deterrents, demanding immediate attention and action from the driver. They are also particularly effective in discouraging reckless driving behaviours in areas where signage and enforcement may be minimal.
Flexibility with Movable Speed Humps
In temporary high-risk areas, movable speed humps offer an excellent alternative to permanent installations. These are especially useful during community events, law enforcement exercises, construction projects, or school holiday programmes. Their ability to be easily relocated makes them cost-effective and adaptable, allowing communities a way to address changing road safety needs.
Be Bright: Use Armco Superlite for Road Safety that’s Right
There is no doubt that these ramps are a powerful tool, reducing accidents and protecting vulnerable pedestrians in South African communities. With strategic positioning, they can transform your dangerous roads into safer, community- and pedestrian-friendly spaces.
At Armco Superlite, we are the leading manufacturers, importers, and distributors of superior-quality road safety equipment throughout southern Africa. Our movable speed ramp is manufactured from tough, recycled PVC and renowned for its quality and durability while meeting international safety standards. So, for your next order, be bright and contact Armco Superlite.