Loose chippings
Encyclopedia
Loose chippings are stone fragments which have become detached from a road surface and form a hazard
to vehicle
s using that road.
They may be the result of a poorly constructed chip seal, when unbound surplus aggregate is not removed from the surface. Another cause is raveling of a chip seal or asphalt concrete
pavement. This is usually the result of a poor bond bond between the asphalt and the aggregate, resulting in aggregate breaking free from the road surface. Raveling may also be caused by mechanical wear from snowplows or studded snow tires.
The consequences of speeding too fast through loose chippings are that both the road and vehicles are damaged. Accumulations of loose chippings can reduce traction and cause loss of control. This presents a special hazard to motorcyclists and bicyclists, who may lose their balance and fall if their tires start sliding. The loose chippings are picked up by tyres
and may be spun off to become high speed missiles, potentially injuring or damaging other persons or vehicles on road.
Loose chippings may also accumulate on verges where they may choke drainage channels.
In many countries, road signs are put up, requiring vehicles to drive at a low speed. In the UK, these temporary traffic signs will require the driver to proceed at 20 mph.
Hazard
A hazard is a situation that poses a level of threat to life, health, property, or environment. Most hazards are dormant or potential, with only a theoretical risk of harm; however, once a hazard becomes "active", it can create an emergency situation. A hazard does not exist when it is not...
to vehicle
Vehicle
A vehicle is a device that is designed or used to transport people or cargo. Most often vehicles are manufactured, such as bicycles, cars, motorcycles, trains, ships, boats, and aircraft....
s using that road.
They may be the result of a poorly constructed chip seal, when unbound surplus aggregate is not removed from the surface. Another cause is raveling of a chip seal or asphalt concrete
Asphalt concrete
Asphalt concrete is a composite material commonly used in construction projects such as road surfaces, airports and parking lots. It consists of asphalt and mineral aggregate mixed together, then laid down in layers and compacted...
pavement. This is usually the result of a poor bond bond between the asphalt and the aggregate, resulting in aggregate breaking free from the road surface. Raveling may also be caused by mechanical wear from snowplows or studded snow tires.
The consequences of speeding too fast through loose chippings are that both the road and vehicles are damaged. Accumulations of loose chippings can reduce traction and cause loss of control. This presents a special hazard to motorcyclists and bicyclists, who may lose their balance and fall if their tires start sliding. The loose chippings are picked up by tyres
Tire
A tire or tyre is a ring-shaped covering that fits around a wheel rim to protect it and enable better vehicle performance by providing a flexible cushion that absorbs shock while keeping the wheel in close contact with the ground...
and may be spun off to become high speed missiles, potentially injuring or damaging other persons or vehicles on road.
Loose chippings may also accumulate on verges where they may choke drainage channels.
In many countries, road signs are put up, requiring vehicles to drive at a low speed. In the UK, these temporary traffic signs will require the driver to proceed at 20 mph.