Exploring Effects of Area-Wide Traffic Calming Measures on Urban Road Sustainable Safety

Traffic calming schemes refer to a combination of road network planning and engineering measures to minimize undesirable effects of traffic in residential areas. The traffic calming role in urban road network management is, indeed, to enhance road safety as well as other aspects of liveability for the citizens; in this context accident reduction can be a realistic objective. Several studies highlight that traffic calming treatments can significantly reduce road accidents in urban areas. Nevertheless, the increase of the accident rate per kilometre travelled has been found in urban areas as result of the so-called accident migration phenomenon. Starting from these considerations, the paper discusses the effects of traffic calming measures on road safety. The paper also aims to provide a concise overview of knowledge on the potential of the meta-analysis method in detecting the true effect of traffic calming measures on road safety. Therefore, the role of the road network planning and the characteristics of urban road network that have to be consistent to the traffic calming objectives are examined. Finally, authors suggest a methodological procedure for implementing a traffic calming zone in residential areas, from planning level to road design.