To know the speed limit on the road you are driving, the first rule of road traffic is to follow occasional signs of limitation on the edge of the roadway in priority directions and slow down when you see speed bumps which are sold in Unimat traffic amongst others. If there are no signs, you need to identify the road you are on and deduce the maximum speed allowed. Several signage elements (signs, terminals, central reservation, etc.) will allow you to recognize the different types of roads easily.
The Speed Limit In Built-Up Areas
The maximum speed is 50 km / h in the city. An agglomeration is a space where several living quarters are grouped and whose entry and exit are indicated.
The speed limit can be reduced to 30 km / h in some city regions, when there is a lack of visibility, in a pedestrian area, or when approaching a school. This limitation is always indicated by a limitation or zone sign.
The consequences of speed on driving
The Centrifugal Force
The centrifugal force is the same as that which pushes the line against the walls in the drum of a clothes dryer. It is when the vehicle takes a turn that the centrifugal force is exerted. The turn will be done without difficulty if it is weaker than the grip because the vehicle will turn easily. On the other hand, the speed risks increasing the centrifugal force, making it greater than the adhesion. The risk is then to “shoot straight” and get off the road. It is necessary to anticipate the turn and slow down as you approach it to avoid this phenomenon.
The Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy is calculated in joules and is accumulated when a vehicle is in motion. The higher the speed, the greater the kinetic energy, it can then have dangerous consequences on driving:
the braking distance can be extended (multiplied by 4 when the speed doubles)
changing course may be more difficult
a more violent impact in a collision
Loss of grip
- The vehicle’s grip on the road depends on:
- the condition of the tires: types, wear, pressure
- pavement coating: quality, holes, deformations
- weather conditions: rain, snow, ice, dry road