Top 4 Best Places To Use Traffic Spikes
A vehicle that is going the wrong way on a one-way conveyance can have a head-on collision with another vehicle. Though relatively rare, a head-on collision can be among the most dangerous and damaging types of traffic accidents. Many facilities turn to Delta Scientific for solutions to prevent vehicles from driving the wrong way. One of the solutions we offer is traffic spikes or traffic teeth.
What Are Traffic Spikes?
Traffic spikes, sometimes called tire spikes or traffic teeth, are metal barriers built into the ground to guide cars in the right direction. They let vehicles roll smoothly over them one way but pop up to stop cars going the wrong way, which can quickly flatten a tire. You canl usually spot them at parking lot exits, car rental returns, or gated areas where one-way traffic is a must. They are a simple, effective way to keep traffic flowing safely and prevent unwanted entry.
How Do Traffic Spikes Work?
Traffic spikes operate through a mechanical one-way hinge or spring-loaded system that responds to the direction of a vehicle’s movement. When a car approaches from the correct direction, the angled metal teeth pivot downward into the housing or flush with the pavement, allowing the tires to roll over smoothly.
If a vehicle moves in the opposite direction, the hinge resists the motion, keeping the spikes upright and rigid. The pointed ends then apply concentrated pressure to the tire surface, often exceeding its structural threshold and causing it to puncture. This directional mechanism provides an effective, low-maintenance way to enforce one-way traffic and prevent unauthorized access.
Where to Use Traffic Spikes for Maximum Effectiveness
Traffic spikes can be an effective way to deter wrong-way traffic in certain situations; however, they are not always appropriate in every setting. Here are some places where using one-way traffic spikes may provide good traffic control.
1. Commercial or Government Properties Benefit from Traffic Spikes
Delta Scientific sells one-way traffic spikes and other access control products for use on commercial and government property. Examples of facilities our products are intended to protect and prevent trespassers include government buildings, military installations, stadiums, schools, and parking facilities.
We do not sell products intended for use on private residential properties, and even if we did, it would be against the law to install traffic spikes on such properties.
2. Spikes Help in Areas of Low Traffic
Traffic teeth are intended for use in areas of relatively low vehicle traffic to keep it flowing in the right direction. High traffic volumes can lead to wear on the spikes that can damage them over time. Unintended damage to the tires of vehicles may result, even to cars that are traveling in the correct direction.
If your facility sees high volumes of traffic, we may be able to offer you another, more appropriate solution, such as a surface-mounted barricade. This type of barricade allows you to control access to the facility by blocking vehicles while you verify the occupants’ credentials and then allowing them to proceed once you have authenticated them.
3. Low-Speed Areas Can Use Traffic Teeth Effectively
Traffic spikes are effective at disabling vehicles traveling in the wrong direction when traveling at low speeds. Therefore, they are appropriate for parking lots and areas where vehicles drive at low speeds. However, traffic teeth are not appropriate for areas in which vehicles are expected to travel at high speeds because they are not effective at stopping vehicles traveling at high velocities. This is the reason that authorities do not use traffic spikes to prevent wrong-way drivers from entering freeways and interstates at on-ramps or off-ramps.
If you need to be able to stop vehicles traveling at high speeds, Delta Scientific barricades and bollards are effective at stopping vehicles weighing up to 15,000 pounds apiece when traveling between 30 and 50 miles per hour. We perform crash tests to verify the speed at which each traffic barrier is effective and give it a crash rating based on the results.
4. Relatively Dry Climates Are Ideal for Traffic Teeth Barriers
The climate in which your facility is located may make a difference in how well traffic teeth may work for you. Weather conditions such as ice, mist, rain, or snow could reduce the traction, while freezing temperatures could make it more difficult for the spikes to close down.
Over time, dirt and debris could build up in the devices as well, preventing the spikes from folding down properly. However, we can perform routine maintenance on all Delta Scientific products that could help prevent this from happening.
Traffic Spikes Are a Smart Choice for Controlled Access
Traffic spikes are a proven, low-maintenance way to keep vehicles moving safely in one direction and prevent costly or dangerous wrong-way incidents. When installed in the right setting, they offer an efficient solution for enforcing traffic flow and protecting property.
For facilities that need higher-speed or more advanced security measures, Delta Scientific also provides a range of tested barriers and bollards designed to stop vehicles under more demanding conditions. Whatever your traffic control needs, Delta Scientific can help you find a reliable, effective system to keep your property and people safe. Contact us today for traffic teeth and other commercial and governmental security options.
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