Traffic Calming: The Benefits

Traffic calming is a self-enforcing traffic management method relying on the laws of physics, as opposed to human psychology, to slow drivers down. Unlike non-physical measures such as stop signs or radar detection, traffic calming solutions leave the driver with no alternative other than to reduce vehicular speed.

There are myriad benefits associated with traffic calming including improved neighborhood livability, enhanced safety, decreased noise and air pollution, less through traffic, prevention of crime and urban redevelopment.

Enhanced safety is one of the most fundamental benefits of traffic calming and one of the primary reasons that programs are created. By reducing speed and decreasing traffic volume, the number and severity of vehicle crashes are significantly diminished. Cars traveling at slower speeds are less likely to hit a pedestrian or cyclist. When accidents do occur despite slower speeds, the impact is considerably lessened. A report by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia titled Safety Benefits of Traffic Calming summarized 43 international studies and found that collision frequencies in areas with traffic calming measures declined between 8-100% and never increased.

A more recent study conducted by The American Journal of Public Health found that children living near traffic calming devices were 50% less likely to be hit and injured by an automobile in their neighborhood. Children living within a block of a speed hump were even less likely to be struck by a vehicle. The study found an astounding 53-60% reduction in the odds of injury or death in neighborhoods with traffic calming measures.

In addition to improved safety, traffic calming solutions present numerous further benefits. Pollution decreases as traffic volume is lessened and safer roads lead more individuals to walk or cycle instead of driving. Traffic calming measures reduce noise levels by 4-5 decibels in most areas. Solutions often result in more aesthetically pleasing streets as well by reducing space devoted to streets and parking and creating more green space, providing both financial and environmental benefit.

Neighborhood crime has been shown to decrease with the installment of traffic calming techniques as decreased accessibility deters potential thieves and criminals.

Traffic calming measures additionally benefit neighborhoods by increasing the value of property. In areas with lower traffic volume and slower average speeds, streets are safer, causing homes to sell at a premium. Many housing developments now include traffic calming in the initial street design in response to its attractiveness to homebuyers.