After more than three years since the initial installation, the single-lane speed bumps on Cuesta Drive are continuing to cause problems on the road.
Los Altos originally installed speed tables on the street in 2020, after complaints of speeding from residents. The Santa Clara County Fire Department told the city that the tables, estimated to be 4.25 inches high, did not meet the department’s regulations.
The city responded by installing staggered, rubber 3-inch tables that met the fire department’s requirements by allowing emergency vehicles to easily maneuver around them.
But some drivers have exploited the disconnected speed tables, swerving into the opposing lane to avoid going over them.
Los Altos Police stop multiple cars per day when on patrol in the area, according to traffic officer Steven DeBiasio.
“From my personal experience, … it’s kind of nonstop out there,” DeBiasio said. “You see how prevalent it is.”
Violators can receive different citations, including violations for crossing a double-yellow line, or, in more rare cases, driving on the wrong side of the road. Both are moving violations, which can add points to a driver’s license, potentially resulting in restrictions or suspensions. CVC 21651B, driving on the wrong side of the road, is considered a misdemeanor – the driver can be arrested and given a court date.
“It’s a lot more serious than just getting a ticket,” DeBiasio said. “We obviously try to educate everybody on that when we do a traffic stop for crossing a double yellow.”
DeBiasio added that he hears a variety of reasons why drivers avoid going over the speed bumps.
“We hear it all,” he said. “‘Oh, it’s bad for my suspension.’ ‘Oh, my car scrapes.’ I’ve heard medical reasons for not being able to drive over bumps.”
When asked about the speed bumps, Los Altos City Manager Gabriel Engeland pointed to previous coverage from the Town Crier that explained why the speed tables were originally installed, needed to be changed and why the bumps are staggered. He declined to comment further.
There are currently no plans in the works to alter the speed tables.
Despite the effect the speed bumps may have on some drivers’ cars, DeBiasio emphasized the importance of a functioning vehicle that won’t be damaged by the tables.
“Every excuse there is, your car needs to be able to function normally on the roadway,” he said. “All vehicles need to be roadworthy and safe to operate on public roadways.”
