What are traffic calming measures designed to improve?

Traffic calming measures are specifically designed to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. These measures aim to create a safer and more comfortable environment for non-motorized users, thereby promoting safer interaction among vehicles and vulnerable road users.

By implementing various strategies like speed bumps, narrowed roads, chicanes, or raised crosswalks, traffic calming measures effectively slow down vehicular traffic. This decrease in speed contributes to fewer accidents, less severe injuries if accidents do occur, and an overall improvement in the quality of life in neighborhoods. These measures are not intended to increase vehicle speeds or encourage more traffic flow; rather, they focus on fostering coexistence on the roads. Additionally, while enhancing the appearance of roads may be a secondary benefit, the primary goal remains safety and speed reduction.