Distortion
 
  • Distortions are usually caused by corrugations, bumps, sags, and shoving.
  • They are localized abrupt upward or downward displacements in the pavement surface
  • Distortions affect ride quality.
  • Distortion is measured in square feet of surface area affected.
  • Severity is determined by riding in a standard sized automobile over the pavement at the posted speed limit.
Low Severity Distortion

  • Low: Distortions produces vehicle vibrations which are noticeable, but no reduction in speed is necessary for comfort or safety, and/or individual distortions cause the vehicle to bounce slightly, but create little discomfort.

 
Vehicle will experience vibration, but no reduction in speed is needed.  
Medium Severity Distortion

  • Medium: Distortion produces vehicle vibrations that are significant and some reduction in speed is necessary for safety and comfort.
Vehicles will experience significant vibrations, and some reduction in speed is needed. Vehicles will experience significant vibrations, and some reduction in speed is needed.
High Severity Distortion
  • High: Distortion produces vehicle vibrations that are so excessive tat speed must be reduced considerably for safety and comfort.
Vehicles will experience execcive vibrations, and speed must be reduced. Vehicles will experience execcive vibrations, and speed must be reduced.