Rumble surfaces

Abstract

Rumble surfaces are intermittent short lengths of coarse-textured road surfacings on which vehicle tyres produce a rumbling sound. used in conjunction with appropriate roadsigns and markings, they can reduce accidents on rural roads by alerting the unwary driver to the need for caution on the approaches to road hazards and by guiding him into adopting a suitable rate of deceleration. If the driver reduces his speed suitably his tyres set up a reassuring rhythmic rumble as his vehicle crosses the intermittent surfaces. Should he fail to slow down, the beat of the rumble becomes quicker and quicker, and imparts a sense of urgency to which he involuntarily responds by braking.