The following quotes are from the members' forum of Talkback, the NBPA newsletter. The comments illustrate that, whatever they are called (sleeping policemen, road ramps, speed humps or cushions) vertical deflection devices are causing problems for disabled people.
"Sleeping Policeman are a nightmare - however well I try
to manoeuver the car, it still causes agony. Does anyone
else face this problem?"
- Autumn 1997
"I too suffer with "sleeping policemen" on some roads, however
carefully my husband drives. I have had extensive surgery and also
suffer cervical spondylosis. However slowly I am driven there is
always a jolt.
- Winter 1997
"I was so glad to see the matter of sleeping policemen
raised. They are misery for me, and there are so many of
them where I live."
- Spring 1998
"I agree with recent sentiments about speed bumps, but would like to point out that one form seems to be far worse than any other - the cushion.
"The cushion is a square lump of raised tarmac, flat at the top, found in pairs or threes stretching across the road. As there are usually cars parked along the side of the road, you have the option of either proceeding down the middle of the road to take the bump(s) evenly - dangerous and probably illegal, or proceeding with two wheels raised higher than the other which even in first gear, really jars my back on landing. I find this very painful, am I the only one?" - Summer 1998
"Besides speed humps, there is the problem of sharp
braking and swaying on buses that can be very painful for
spines and joints, yet current vigorous campaigns ask us
to leave the car at home and use the bus! Any comments?
- Editor"
- Summer 1998
For more information about the NBPA, including how to become a member, visit their website or write to: 16 Elmtree Road, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 8ST (UK)
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©
Rada Project,
1998
August 25, 1998 (Version 1)