Speed differentials for motorised and non-motorised traffic
Assigning different speed limits to vehicles for safer roads
Traffic calming measures
A wide range of road users with varying speeds and characteristics pose a risk on Africa’s roads. In a continent where resources are scarce, combining different types of road users can help reduce capital and maintenance costs.
In the African context, road infrastructure is often designed primarily for motorised transport, leaving non-motorised users to navigate the road or its margins (road reserve) to reach their destinations.
In a just transport system, these shortcomings are addressed by providing infrastructure for non-motorised transport (NMT). The NMT facility guidelines, developed in South Africa and adopted across the continent, suggest using a speed differential of 20 km/h as a rule of thumb for combining/separating modes (Vanderschuren et al., 2014).
Given the lack of a secondary road network, it is paramount that existing mobility corridors cater for all road users, ensuring separation where possible. Road designers must carefully evaluate the needs of intersections and along links to create a safer and more inclusive transport experiences.
Road space design
Separation of motorised and non-motorised traffic on a high mobility spine.
(Vanderschuren et al., 2014)
Separation of motorised and non-motorised traffic on a high mobility intersection.
(Vanderschuren et al., 2014)
Elegant grade separation – example Lelystad.
(Vanderschuren et al., 2014)
The Safe Systems Approach
Provision for all modes with speeds in mind effects the user, various modes, the roads and speeds.
