Slow Down! Speeding Solutions for HOAs

Speeding traffic in HOA communities is a serious matter. Large towns with many children in the neighborhood are the worst-off when it comes to reckless driving concerns. Speeding may cause unnecessary incidents that pose a real issue for HOA Board Members. Here are a few suggestions that you can try in your community association to solve the issue of speeding.

Get the Local Law Enforcement Involved

Even if your roads are private, your association may be able to enlist local law enforcement's support to conduct periodic patrols of your community. Regular and unannounced visits from the authorities could significantly impact your association's creation of a culture of accountability.

Use Speeding Signs 

Wherever possible, post signs around your community that remind residents and guests of the speed limit. It's also important to remind motorists what is at stake if they don't abide by your traffic rules. Simple signage like "Children at Play" can be a useful reminder of the importance of driving cautiously.

Implement Speed Detection Devices

In recent years, technology has afforded community associations the ability to utilize many of the same devices used by law enforcement agencies. Static and mobile solutions are available to record speeds, capture license plates of speeding vehicles, and report infractions. Some tools instantly send board members and management personnel a text message or email containing a video of speeding vehicles. Notices of a fine, if your governing documents allow it, might be issued using this data as evidence. 

According to the article, "A Case Study in Ending Speeding in Parkland Golf & Country Club (PGCC)," speeding concerns became a critical issue that the PGCC HOA. The Board of Directors knew that they needed to fix this situation before someone got hurt and, therefore, immediately acted upon this issue to prevent speeding in the neighborhood. As a result of installing cameras in the area, the PGCC Board of Directors saw favorable results. 

Install Speed Inhibitors 

Devices like speed bumps, speed humps, speed cushions, and rumble strips have long been the go-to method for HOAs to deal with speeding vehicles effectively. The installation of these devices can vary significantly in cost, but there are many affordable solutions available.

Before committing to installing these devices in your community, consult your local municipal department, as roadway ownership and building codes may control the type of permissible devices. A civil engineer specializing in traffic control may also serve as an excellent resource for determining the most useful methods and locations for installation based on your community's traffic patterns.

Employ Traffic Enforcement Services

Traffic enforcement officers Where available, these services charge a fee for periodic visits to your community to employ various methods for identifying and recording speeding vehicles. If fining is permissible in your association, the costs of these services can be quickly offset by the revenue generated from the fines.

Be Transparent

Communication is critical in situations like this. If your community is concerned with the amount of speeding in the neighborhood, openly listen and communicate with your community. You can choose to notify homeowners via mailed letter, email, text, or phone. Whatever your preferred method of communication, be it mail, ensure that you continue to remind owners of the dangers posed by speeding. If your community has a security gate, ensure your security officers remind guests of speed limit requirements either verbally or on printed guest passes.

Consult the Governing Documents 

Before introducing speed detection solutions and traffic calming devices, be sure to consult your association's governing documents. Your documents should offer guidelines for your Board of Directors regarding the ability to install devices or signage in the association's common areas. Fining procedures, if permissible, will also be addressed in these documents. If you need additional assistance, be sure to seek the opinion of a qualified legal professional.

Let Us Know How We Can Help 

Combatting speeding in your community can often feel like a never-ending and challenging battle. However, it is a vital one that deserves attention. Creating a culture of safety in your community takes time, effort, and a consistent message. Let us know how Condominium Associates can help you and your HOA Board solve the issue of speeding in your association!