Speed Study
A Speed Study is a detailed analysis that traffic engineers conduct to understand how fast vehicles typically travel on a specific road or highway. It helps determine if current speed limits are appropriate and safe. This type of study involves collecting data about actual driving speeds, analyzing accident history, and considering road conditions like curves, hills, and nearby buildings. Think of it as a thorough check-up of a road's safety and efficiency. Engineers use this information to recommend speed limits that most drivers will naturally follow, which leads to safer roads for everyone.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Speed Study analysis for 15 urban intersections resulting in updated speed limit recommendations
Led team in comprehensive Speed Studies and Traffic Speed Analysis for county-wide road safety initiative
Implemented recommendations from Speed Study findings to reduce accident rates by 30% in high-risk areas
Typical job title: "Traffic Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Traffic Engineers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a community disagrees with your speed study recommendations?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss community engagement strategies, explaining technical findings in simple terms, considering all stakeholder input, and maintaining a balance between safety requirements and community needs.
Q: What factors would you consider when conducting a speed study in a school zone?
Expected Answer: Should mention pedestrian safety, peak hours analysis, seasonal variations in traffic, special event considerations, and coordination with school administrators and local authorities.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to collect speed data for a study?
Expected Answer: Should explain various data collection methods like radar guns, automated counters, and video analysis, along with the importance of choosing representative time periods and locations.
Q: How do you determine if a speed limit needs to be changed based on study results?
Expected Answer: Should discuss analyzing the 85th percentile speed, crash history, road conditions, and surrounding environment to make informed recommendations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the 85th percentile speed and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's the speed at which 85% of vehicles travel at or below, and why this is considered a key factor in setting appropriate speed limits.
Q: What basic equipment is used in conducting a speed study?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list and describe basic tools like radar guns, traffic counters, measuring wheels, and data collection sheets.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic data collection methods
- Understanding of speed study equipment
- Basic traffic analysis software use
- Report writing and documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent study management
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Community presentation skills
- Safety regulation knowledge
Senior (5+ years)
- Project leadership
- Complex study design
- Policy recommendation
- Stakeholder management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No field experience in data collection
- Lack of understanding of basic traffic safety principles
- Poor knowledge of current traffic regulations and standards
- No experience with traffic analysis software
- Unable to explain the 85th percentile concept
Related Terms
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