Whether you call them speed bumps or speed humps, we can all agree that they can be an annoyance. But in many areas, they are a necessary measure to slow down traffic and minimize speeding. However, placing two of them in tandem? Well, that seems bizarre, to say the least.
The ’11 Foot 8’ bridge may be the most infamous viral road obstacle in recent years, but a YouTube channel, dubbed Speed Bump Olympics, might give that famous bridge a run for its money.
For nearly a year now, the owner of the channel has been sharing videos of vehicles speeding across two speed bumps located directly in front of their house. We have no idea why someone thought it would be a good idea to place two large speed bumps so close together. However, it does make for some very interesting footage.
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Since our original story, the Speed Bump Olympics channel has added a slew of new videos featuring fresh instances of speed bump fails. In one video, a driver attempts to launch their car over the two speed bumps, only to land with a heavy thud and scrape. In another, a motorcycle rider seems to have some fun going over the humps.
Many drivers approach the first speed bump with far too much speed, likely thinking that they can get over it without slowing down. They’re then confronted with the second speed bump that sends many of them bouncing into the air. All kinds of drivers and vehicles can be seen getting caught out by the speed bumps, including a police officer driving a Ford Explorer who you would think would be aware of the dual speed bumps if they frequently patrol the area.
The cars suffer all kinds of damage. Some scratch their undertrays along the speed bumps, sending sparks flying into the air. Others bounce up and down, causing damage to their front and rear bumpers. Remarkably, the individual behind the YouTube channel says he has lived opposite the speed bumps for 11 years and that they have never actually seen a crash caused by them.
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While some might find the footage amusing, it does raise a serious question about the design of road obstacles. Although they may be necessary, poorly designed bumps can cause serious damage to vehicles and, in some cases, accidents. The Speed Bump Olympics channel may be entertaining, but it also highlights the need for more thoughtful and effective road design.
The idea of placing two speed bumps so close together is not a new one. There are countless examples of poorly designed speed bumps that cause more harm than good. Speed bumps that are too steep, too high, or too close together can cause major damage to vehicles. They can also pose a danger to pedestrians and cyclists, who may lose control on the uneven surface.
What Do Authorities Say?
According to the Federal Highway Administration, speed humps should be no more than 3-4 inches high but speed bumps can be as much as 6-inches in height. If placed too close together, they can create a washboard effect that can be damaging to vehicles and uncomfortable for passengers.
Many municipalities have installed speed bumps as a way to slow down traffic in residential areas. While they may be effective at reducing speeds, they can also cause noise pollution and inconvenience to residents. Some have even complained that they create a safety hazard, as drivers may swerve to avoid them, potentially causing an accident.
The Speed Bump Olympics channel may seem like a lighthearted way to poke fun at poorly designed road obstacles, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of effective road design. By using the right materials, spacing, and height, municipalities can create road obstacles that slow down traffic without causing damage or inconvenience to drivers.