SPEEDING
What steps can be taken to reduce speeding?
The City has two primary mechanisms to address speeding: education and enforcement.
To educate motorists and remind them of speed laws, the City uses speed feedback trailers that show motorists their speed limit. These units are effective in reducing vehicular speeds in many areas. The City also conducts public outreach through social media, including its popular “Heads Up!” campaign.
Additionally, the City works with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to provide speed enforcement.
How can I request speed humps or cushions on my street?
Speed cushions can be effective in reducing the speed of vehicles on residential streets. Studies show that 85% of vehicles slow by 4–6 mph after speed humps or cushions are installed.
Speed cushions are not intended for use on all streets and are permitted only on residential streets maintained by the City that meet specific criteria. To qualify, a street must have a minimum length of 500 feet, a posted or prima facie speed limit of 25 mph, a daily traffic volume of at least 1,500 vehicles, and a sustained grade that does not exceed six percent. City staff will evaluate streets that meet these criteria to determine whether traffic volumes warrant speed cushion installation. Additionally, at least 67% of abutting property owners on the affected street segment must support the installation. Further requirements and details can be found in the Speed Hump/Cushion Program Package guidelines.
How are speed limits determined?
State law requires speed limits to be based on traffic engineering surveys, which the City conducts every five years. These surveys analyze road conditions, accident data, and prevailing speeds, setting limits at or below the speed 85% of drivers travel. Residential streets have a speed limit of 25 miles per hour, as established by state law.
Speed limits set above the prevailing speed are generally considered unreasonable and unsafe. Conversely, speed limits set below the prevailing speed do not provide for the orderly movements of traffic.
REQUESTING SIGNS
How can I request a speed limit sign on my street?
The City installs speed limit signs on all major roadways. Speed limits not set through a traffic engineering survey are known as prima facie speed limits, set by the California vehicle code, such as 15 mph in alleys and 25 mph on residential streets and part-time in posted school zones when children are present.
The City may install speed limit signs of 25 mph at the entrance of a residential neighborhood from a major roadway with a high-speed limit, but otherwise, they are not typically installed.
Can the City install “children at play” signs on my street?
The City does not install “Children at Play” or “SLOW” signs on public streets, as they are not recognized as official traffic control devices and do not reduce speeds or accidents. These signs can create a false sense of security, potentially encouraging unsafe behavior. Instead, the City follows state traffic guidelines, posting appropriate signs for school zones and pedestrian crossings as needed.
Can stop signs be installed to reduce speeding?
Stop signs are traffic control devices intended to improve intersection safety and are not effective at reducing speeding. The City conducts traffic studies to determine where stop signs are warranted. Installing stop signs where they aren’t needed can reduce their effectiveness.
Can the City install warning signs, such as “not a through street” or side road signs on my street?
Warning signs are typically installed to guide and alert drivers about conditions that may not be easily seen.
- “NOT A THROUGH STREET” signs are used at the entrance to dead-end streets or cul-de-sacs.
- “NO OUTLET” signs are placed at the entrance to streets that don’t connect to other streets.
- Side road signs are used to warn drivers about upcoming intersections, like T-intersections, Y-intersections, or four-way intersections, especially when curves may block the view of the side road
REQUESTING SIGNALS
Can I request a traffic signal to be installed?
To determine if a traffic signal is warranted, Traffic and Transportation Planning Division engineers evaluate traffic volumes, accident history, speeds, intersection configuration, proximity to other signalized intersections, and facilities like schools and other site-specific criteria.
Can I request a protected left-turn signal at an existing intersection?
Left-turn signals, or “protected” left-turn signals, allow drivers to turn left without conflicting traffic. When there is no opposing traffic, left-turn signals can cause unnecessary delays. Traffic and Transportation Planning Division engineers evaluate traffic volume, accident history, traffic delay, and other elements such as sight visibility to determine if a protected left-turn signal is warranted.
What is traffic signal synchronization?
Traffic signal synchronization helps keep traffic flowing smoothly with fewer stops on busy streets by timing traffic lights along main roads. Factors like distance between signals, traffic speed, and driveways affect how effective synchronization is.
Most of the City’s major streets are synchronized. In most cases, synchronization is active from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during weekdays. Outside of these hours, signals operate on a ‘first-come, first-served’ or traffic-activated basis. Signals on streets not selected for synchronization operate continuously.
RED CURBS
Can I paint red curbs and install my own traffic signs on my street?
Traffic signs and markings on public streets can only be placed by public authorities. The City installs traffic signs and curb markings only after carefully assessing their need and impact on the streets. Any signs or markings placed without City approval are illegal and cannot be enforced. These unauthorized signs or markings are considered a public nuisance and will be removed.
Does the City paint curbs red to indicate no-stopping zones?
Traffic signs and markings on public streets can only be placed by public authorities. The City installs traffic signs and curb markings only after carefully assessing their need and impact on the streets. Any signs or markings placed without City approval are illegal and cannot be enforced. These unauthorized signs or markings are considered a public nuisance and will be removed. The City uses no-stopping signs to prohibit street parking.
How do I request a school crossing guard?
Residents should contact the school to request a crossing guard. The principal will determine whether a study is needed. If the school and district agree, the request is sent to the City, and City staff will evaluate the location and traffic patterns to determine if a crossing guard is warranted. If a crossing guard is warranted and the City Council authorizes it, a crossing guard will be stationed at the school.
I have poor visibility when exiting the driveway at my residence. Can you help?
Traffic and Transportation Planning Division staff will study areas near driveways or intersections with visibility issues to determine if parking restrictions are needed for safety. They also review accident data from the past year to see if removing parking spaces is justified. Drivers should always exercise caution when exiting driveways or side streets.