“Speed Cushions” Could Be Coming To Your North Carolina Street

More and more North Carolina cities are using a new speed-control device that's less expensive than road humps and just as effective.  Now, "speed cushions" could be coming to your North Carolina street.

Speed cushions are like speed humps, but they are made of rubber and are much less expensive.  They also require a lot less manpower to install.  But what really sets them apart is their compatibility with emergency vehicles and public transportation.  Speed cushions have gaps or cutouts that allow wider vehicles (such as ambulances and buses) to straddle them without experiencing the "bump-bump" that slows down passenger vehicles.

“We want to slow down, without slowing down those first responders,” Charlotte Department of Transportation spokesman David Smith told Spectrum News.

Speed cushions are typically used on streets where traffic calming is needed, but it is essential to maintain access for larger vehicles and emergency services.  Studies show that speed cushions decrease public service response times when compared to speed humps.

According to transportation officials, there is a waiting list for traffic calming devices in Charlotte neighborhoods.  This is is directly related to the area's surge in growth.  When faced with traffic jams, drivers often seek alternate routes through residential areas.  Officials say these are the areas where they are receiving the most complaints.

Well, we all know driving is pretty intense. Yes, there are tons of things that can make the road and driving dangerous but it is one of the scariest things to think about. During your drive, there are so many things that can cause a bit of distress along the way. From bumpy roads, heavy traffic, accidents, and so much more it can cause quite a scare.

Savoteur gathered a list of 15 of the scariest drives that one can take in America. Whether you want a thrill or want to avoid danger, then you may want to know more information on this list. Unfortunately, a road that runs in North Carolina is coming in at #1. This specific road begins in North Carolina, so it may be something that you want to keep an eye on. If you have been on this road before then you probably already know what we're talking about. So, check out the top 5 below and see which North Carolina road is coming at #1 on this list. View the full list here to see all 15 that made the list.

Going-to-The-Sun-Road is a 50 mile, lengthy road experience. The road runs in Glacier National Park that is home to cliffs and narrow switchbacks. There are a few miles on the roadway that do not have rails or short rock railings making it a bit more dangerous. Beware of danger!

Pikes Peak Highway is located through the Colorado's Rocky Mountain. This 19-mile paved roadway and is one of the highest roads in the U.S. located at the peak.

Moki Dugway is a 3-mile highway stretch located between Cedar Mesa and Mexican Hat in Utah. The road connects Highways 95 and 163. The road was created for truck drivers hauling ore and it was carved from the face of the cliff. 

The Million Dollar Highway is part of the Colorado San Juan Skyway. The road is a 25-mile stretch of Route 550 between Silverton and Ouray. The road is cut into the side of the mountain with no rails or a shoulder for protection. Making it clearly one of the most dangerous. The views may be great, but you do need to be sure to be aware of your surroundings while driving.

Here we are coming in at #1. The Tail of the Dragon is the road that starts in North Carolina and ends in Tennessee. This long, twisting road has over 300 curves, 11 bridges, very few guardrails. I personally have never been on this road, but after reviewing this, I clearly hope I never have too. Many drivers enjoy the thrill that this road gives, but as for me, no thank you!