Paving for Safety: The Effect of Granite Block Paving on Traffic Speed and Accidents

Speeding traffic is a significant problem in many urban areas, with drivers often prioritising reaching their destination quickly over the safety of others. The consequences of speeding can be severe, including increased accidents and injuries, noise pollution and decreased air quality. Moderating traffic speed in urban areas is necessary to create safer and more livable communities.

One natural traffic regulating measure that has gained popularity in recent years is using Granite blocks. This method uses Granite pavers and tiles to create a textured road surface that maintains traffic speed and reduces the risk of accidents. It has also led to the upsurge of Granite pavers and tiles suppliers globally.

There are studies that suggest that the use of Granite paving has a significant impact on reducing the number of accidents at intersections and involving pedestrians.

In the UK study, Granite block paving was associated with a 43% reduction in accidents at intersections, which are often high-risk areas for collisions due to the confluence of multiple traffic streams. Additionally, the study found a 90% reduction in accidents involving pedestrians, which is particularly significant given the vulnerability of pedestrians in accidents.

It’s worth noting that the study was conducted in specific locations and may not be generalisable to all situations. However, it provides valuable evidence of the potential benefits of using Granite pavers as a traffic-calming measure to improve safety on roads and streets.

Here is how Granite helps with traffic speed and accidents:

Increases Visibility

Granite pavers can increase visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. It is why the popularity of Granite tile and paver suppliers is gaining ground. The light-reflective properties can help to improve visibility during low light conditions, such as at dawn or dusk. This can help to reduce the likelihood of accidents.

• Better visibility for drivers: Granite pavers are known for their light-reflective properties. It can help drivers to see better the road ahead, other vehicles and pedestrians, reducing the chances of accidents especially during low light conditions.
• Clear markings and delineations: Granite block paving can create clear markings and delineations on the road. This can help to guide drivers, particularly in areas where lanes are not marked, reducing accidents caused by confusion or uncertainty.
• Improved visibility for pedestrians: It also improves visibility for pedestrians. The high-contrast and reflective nature of the blocks can make it easier for pedestrians to see the vehicles coming along.
• Reduced glare: The light-reflective properties of Granite block paving can also help to reduce glare from headlights.

Improves Traction

Granite pavers provide better traction than other pavement materials- like asphalt. This can help to reduce skidding and sliding, particularly during wet or icy conditions.

• Improved grip: The natural texture of Granite pavers provides a better grip for vehicles than smooth surfaces like asphalt. So, during extreme weather, the chances of accidents due to skidding or sliding can be lessened.
• Reduced stopping distances: Because of their traction feature, Granite tiles or pavers can also help to reduce stopping distances for vehicles. This means drivers can apply brake more quickly and effectively, reducing the likelihood of rear-end collisions.
• Enhanced control: The improved grip provided by Granite block paving can also give drivers greater control over their vehicles.
• Safer turning: The natural texture of Granite tiles and pavers can also help to improve the safety of turns and corners. The enhanced grip provided by the pavement can help vehicles to maintain their trajectory through turns, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by skidding or sliding. One must note that the slip-resistance factors should be checked by the Granite pavers and tiles supplier while buying the product.

Traffic Calming Feature

Using Granite pavers can help slow down traffic in certain areas. The irregular surface of the blocks can act as a natural traffic calming measure, making drivers to slow down and pay closer attention to their surroundings.

• Reduced speed: Granite block paving has a rough surface texture that can cause vehicles to slow down, reducing traffic speed. This reduced speed can help prevent accidents by giving drivers more time to react to unexpected obstacles or other hazards on the road.
• Visual cues: The visual pattern created by the block paving can also serve as a visual cue to drivers, reminding them that they are entering a shared space with pedestrians and other road users. This can help increase awareness and reduce the probability of accidents.
• Noise reduction: Granite pavers can also help reduce noise pollution during traffic. The rough surface texture of the blocks absorbs sound waves, reducing the noise that reaches nearby buildings and homes.

Durable

Granite is a highly durable material that withstands heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. This means the pavement is less likely to deteriorate over time, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by potholes or uneven surfaces.

• Resistance to wear and tear: Granite pavers are highly resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for use in high-traffic areas such as roads, driveways and parking lots. The durability of the pavers means that they can withstand heavy loads and frequent use without becoming damaged or worn, which can help maintain a smooth and safe driving surface.
• Low maintenance: The durability of Granite pavers also means that they require very little maintenance over time. Unlike other paving materials that may require regular repairs or replacement, Granite pavers can last for decades with minimal upkeep. This can reduce the need for road closures or disruptions due to maintenance work, which can help keep traffic moving smoothly.
• Environmental resistance: Granite pavers are highly resistant to environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, moisture and UV radiation. This makes them ideal for harsh weather conditions, where other paving materials may damage or degrade over time.

Bottom Line: Connect with Granite Pavers and Tiles Suppliers for Expert Advice

In conclusion, using building materials from suitable Granite pavers and tiles suppliers has proven to be a highly effective natural traffic calming measure that can positively impact traffic speed and reduce the number of accidents in urban areas.

If you’re still confused, you can connect with natural stone experts like Stone Depot, one of Australia’s leading Granite pavers and tiles suppliers. By embracing innovative and sustainable solutions like this, we can work towards a future where everyone can move around their communities quickly and safely!