Bending over backwards

Shoby Bends on the A6006 in Leicestershire, UK is a major black spot in a region where accident rates are well below average. Earlier schemes aimed at cutting the accident level have focused on installing warnings on the bends, using traditional chevrons, and recommended speed signs. The council's new approach is to install 10 vehicle-activated signs (VASs) on the bends. The signs are from Westcotec. Previously considered, but rejected, options were to install a high-friction surface along the entire route or to install safety cameras. The first VAS warns motorists to reduce their speed by displaying the words 'slow down', with an image of bends on the road ahead. Drivers who do not slow down then encounter eight different kinds of chevrons along a one-mile stretch of road. The signs are either in groups of three or single signs. Each is activated independently, with the trigger speed adjusted for each sign. The signs are guaranteed by Westcotec for everything except theft and damage by a vehicle hitting them. Sign installation costs #130,000. Since installation, there has been a 10% decrease in vehicle speeds.