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Speeding is one of the most persistent and dangerous traffic problems facing communities today. Whether it’s in residential neighborhoods, near schools, or through work zones, unsafe speeds increase the risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
But what’s the best way to slow drivers down?
There is a range of traffic safety strategies, from traditional traffic calming devices to modern automated speed enforcement systems, that help communities identify the right tools for their specific goals.
Why Is Speeding So Common in Local Areas?
Local roads often lack the perceived enforcement presence found on highways. Common causes of speeding include:
- Wide or open road designs that encourage faster driving
- Lack of speed limit signage or driver awareness
- Drivers cutting through neighborhoods to avoid traffic
- Misalignment between posted speeds and actual travel behavior
Even in areas with lower speed limits, drivers may not consistently comply unless there is a clear consequence.
How Speeding Impacts Safety
Speeding increases both the likelihood and severity of crashes. Just a few extra miles per hour can make a big difference:
- A pedestrian struck at 20 mph has a ~90% chance of survival.
- At 40 mph, that drops below 20%.
- Higher speeds also reduce driver reaction time and increase stopping distance.
That’s why speeding in community zones—especially near schools, parks, or construction areas—requires targeted intervention.
Common Tools to Reduce Speeding
Communities typically use a mix of engineering, education, and enforcement to address speeding. Here are the most common tools:
Speed Humps, Cushions, and Raised Crosswalks
- Physically force drivers to slow down
- Effective on low-volume neighborhood streets
- Can increase noise or delay emergency response
Signage and Radar Feedback Signs
- Visual reminders of speed limits
- Radar signs show real-time speed to drivers
- May reduce speeds temporarily, but impact fades without enforcement
Police Enforcement
- Traditional method with flexibility
- Limited by staffing and cost
- Requires officer presence and manual processing
Automated Speed Enforcement Cameras
- Operate 24/7 without officer presence
- Use radar and cameras to detect and document speeding
- Proven to reduce speeding and change driver behavior over time
- Flexible deployment options (fixed, transportable, mobile)
When combined with signage and public outreach, speed cameras provide consistent, scalable, and fair enforcement.
Comparing Speed Cameras to Traditional Traffic Calming
Both speed cameras and traffic calming approaches have value. Many communities choose to combine solutions—adding automated enforcement where traditional methods fall short or where enforcement needs to scale across multiple areas.
| Feature | Traffic Calming Devices | Speed Cameras |
| Physical Infrastructure | Required | Not required |
| Enforcement Consistency | Passive (driver-dependent) | Active enforcement |
| Scalability | Limited (fixed locations) | High (portable or mobile options) |
| Public Disruption | May affect emergency response | Minimal impact |
| Cost Over Time | Upfront construction costs | Ongoing but violator-funded |
| Behavioral Change | Moderate | Strong and sustained |
Tailoring Solutions to Your Community
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right mix depends on factors like:
- Street design and speed history
- Crash data and resident concerns
- Budget and funding models
- Legal framework for enforcement
Verra Mobility works with cities, towns, and school districts to analyze needs and implement customized solutions that reduce speeding with minimal disruption.
Educating the Public Makes a Difference
Public awareness is critical to the success of any speed reduction strategy. Programs are most effective when paired with:
- Educational campaigns about the dangers of speeding
- Transparent communication about enforcement goals
- Community engagement to build support and trust
Enforcement works best when people understand the “why” behind it.
Learn More About Speed Enforcement Tools
Continue exploring speed reduction strategies and their real-world impact:
Want to Reduce Speeding in Your Neighborhood?
Verra Mobility offers comprehensive speed enforcement solutions that work—whether you’re looking to address one problem zone or implement a citywide safety program.
Contact us to learn how we can help your community slow down and stay safe.