Uncontrolled vehicle speed in parking lots creates serious safety risks. Here's an overview of speed control options for commercial properties.
Parking Lot Maintenance Overview
Vehicle speed in parking lots is a safety problem that's often underestimated. Pedestrians in parking areas are elderly, distracted, or carrying loads — and they share space with vehicles in unpredictable patterns.
Speed humps are rounded asphalt mounds 7-9 cm high and 3.5-4.2 metres wide. They're effective at controlling speed to 20-30 km/h and are appropriate for internal drive aisles.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Speed bumps are narrower and taller than humps — approximately 5-8 cm high over 30-90 cm. They effectively slow vehicles but are uncomfortable at any speed above walking pace. Better suited for very low-speed zones.
Speed tables are flat-topped, elongated humps with ramped approaches. They provide a stable platform for low-speed crossing and are compatible with emergency vehicle access in ways sharp humps are not.
Commercial Parking Solutions
Installation considerations include snow plow compatibility (humps must be marked and considered in plowing contracts), accessibility (proper ramps on pedestrian crossing sections), and drainage (no humps in low-lying areas that pool water).
Pavement markings and signage complement physical control. Yellow paint on the face of humps, advance warning signs, and pedestrian crossing markings work together to alert drivers before they encounter devices.
Traffic calming is most effective as a designed-in system. If your parking lot has persistent speed problems, a site review by a traffic consultant can identify the driving layout changes and physical measures that together create safer conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Vehicle speed in parking lots is a safety problem that's often underestimated.
- Speed bumps are narrower and taller than humps — approximately 5-8 cm high over 30-90 cm.
- Installation considerations include snow plow compatibility (humps must be marked and considered in plowing contracts), ...
- D&D Commercial Services serves Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and surrounding areas
- Get a free no-obligation quote — call or book online anytime
Sources & References
- Ontario Building Code — Relevant Standards & Guidelines
- D&D Commercial Services field experience across Waterloo Region
