How to Slow Down Speeding Vehicles in Your Condo
From the WB Condo Connection – Q3, 2018…
Fall is right around the corner and with outside maintenance needing to be done and kids going back to school, your community can be quite active. It’s no secret that speeding cars on private roads is an extreme issue that can result in serious consequences. Give your residents peace of mind and use these tips for slowing down speeding vehicles.
1. Contact Local Law Enforcement.
Even if your roads are private, your corporation may be able to enlist the support of local law enforcement to conduct periodic patrols of your community. Periodic and unannounced visits by the authorities could have a significant impact in creating a culture of accountability in your corporation.
2. Use Signage.
Wherever possible, post signs around your community that remind residents and guests of your speed limits. In addition to speed limits, it’s important to remind motorists what is at stake if they don’t abide by your traffic rules. Simple signage like “Children at Play” can be effective reminders of the importance of driving cautiously.
3. Implement Speed Detection Devices.
In recent years, technology has afforded condominium corporations with the ability to utilize many of the same devices used by law enforcement agencies. Fixed and moveable solutions are available to record speeds, capture license plates of speeding vehicles, and report on infractions. Some devices even have the ability to instantly send board members and management personnel a text message or email containing video of speeding vehicles.
4. Install Traffic Calming Devices.
Devices like speed bumps, speed humps, speed cushions, and rumble strips have long been the go-to method for condos to effectively deal with speeding vehicles. Installation of these devices can vary greatly in cost, but there are many affordable solutions available. Before committing to installing these devices in your community, consult your local municipal department, as roadway ownership and building codes may control the type of devices that are permissible. A civil engineer who specializes in traffic control may also serve as a great resource for determining the most effective devices and locations for installation based on your community’s traffic patterns
5. Utilize Traffic Enforcement Services.
Speeding motorists on private roadways has become such a problem that it has led to the growth of a new industry – traffic enforcement. These services, where available, charge a fee for periodic visits to your community to employ various methods for identifying and recording speeding vehicles.
6. Emphasize Communication.
Proactive and consistent communication is one of the most effective ways of curtailing any undesirable behaviour in a condominium community. Whatever your preferred method of communication, ensure that you continue to remind owners of the dangers posed by speeding.
7. Read Your Governing Documents.
Before introducing speed detection solutions and traffic calming devices, be sure to consult your corporation’s governing documents. Your documents should offer guidelines for your board of directors regarding the ability to install devices or signage on the condominium’s common areas. Rule enforcement procedures should also be addressed in these documents. If you need additional assistance, be sure to seek the opinion of a qualified legal professional.
8. Don’t Give Up!
Combatting speeding in your community can often feel like a difficult and never ending battle, but it is an important one. Creating a culture of safety in your community takes time, effort, and consistency. Various remedies are available and are worth exploring. It could save a life!