Speed bumps are designed to slow down vehicles, but these two closely placed obstacles launch cars, SUVs and trucks into the air.
An unexpected and spectacular phenomenon
The idea behind speed bumps is simple: reduce vehicle speeds in residential areas for safety reasons. But what happens when two speed bumps are placed too close together? The answer is surprising: the vehicles literally take off, transforming an ordinary street into a jumping track.
The speed bump Olympics phenomenon
For almost a year, a YouTube channel called Speed Bump Olympics has been sharing videos of vehicles racing against two speed bumps placed right in front of the channel owner's house. These videos show drivers who, thinking they can pass the first speed bump without slowing down, find themselves thrown into the air by the second.
Viral videos
The videos capture both funny and alarming moments:
These videos show vehicles of all types, including police cars, trucks and SUVs, suffering significant damage: scraped underbody, damaged front and rear bumpers, and strained suspensions. .
The dangers of poorly designed speed bumps
While the images may make you smile, they raise a serious question about road barrier design. Poorly designed speed bumps can cause considerable damage to vehicles and, in some cases, lead to accidents. It is crucial to design speed bumps that slow vehicles down without causing damage.
Standards and recommendations for speed bumps
According to the Federal Highway Administration, speed bumps should not exceed 4 inches in height. When speed bumps are placed too close together, they can create a corrugated iron effect, harmful to vehicles and uncomfortable for passengers.
Implications for municipalities
Municipalities often use speed bumps to reduce speeds in residential areas. Although effective in slowing traffic, these devices can also cause noise pollution and inconvenience to residents. Some residents complain that drivers try to avoid them by making dangerous maneuvers.
Lessons to be learned from the phenomenon
Speed Bump Olympics, while entertaining, highlights the importance of effective road infrastructure design. Using the right materials, properly spacing speed bumps and adjusting their height can help slow traffic without causing damage or discomfort to drivers.
The need for thoughtful design
To avoid problems caused by poorly placed or poorly designed speed bumps, it is essential that local authorities consider best practice road design. This includes :
A thought on speed bumps
The phenomenon of vehicles taking off over two closely spaced speed bumps may seem innocuous, but it highlights a broader need for careful consideration of road infrastructure design. By considering the implications for vehicles, drivers and residents, it is possible to create traffic calming solutions that are both effective and safe.
Finally, watching the Speed Bump Olympics videos provides a unique perspective on the challenges and realities of daily life in the presence of poorly designed road devices. Thoughtful design and correct implementation are essential to ensure the safety and comfort of all road users.
Video: These cars fly over two speed bumps that are too close together
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