The instances of traffic accidents and fatalities are a subject that worries most of us. There are education programs and advertising campaigns to alert drivers to specific dangers on our roads. One new call to action is the possibility of providing “traffic calming” in various areas. The hope with initiatives such as this is a reduction in accidents and claims against drivers’ California auto insurance policies, as well as making the streets safer for non-vehicle users.
So what is traffic calming? It was begun in Europe as a way to enable a balance of use on certain streets to make it safer for all users. Communities benefit by having the safety of their roadways improved and allowing for other activities without the danger to those users. Visual improvements are included in such strategies to soften the look and impact of traffic areas. Some of the ideas suggested in traffic calming include:
• Chicanes, roundabouts and raised medians to slow traffic and add to pedestrian safety.
• Raised road humps or changed road surfaces to reduce driver speed.
• Diagonal parking.
• Two way roads to avoid confusion.
• Widening or beautification of sidewalks.
While not all traffic areas would be suitable to such traffic calming ideas there are some that might benefit greatly. Any reduction in injuries, accidents and claims on California auto insurance policies can only be a good thing.
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