Raised traffic calming devices are typically used on local streets, primarily to reduce traffic speeds. Raised devices may provide the greatest impact of traffic calming devices on lowering speeds, but effectiveness is dependent on the geometrics of the devices and how widely spaced they are.² Some traffic may also be diverted through the use of raised devices, depending on how much of current traffic is non-local, the availability of alternate routes, the extent of area-wide treatment, and the type of treatment implemented (that is, humps may divert more traffic than longer and greater tables). Designs should consider bicyclist needs. More gradual and/or longer humps are less uncomfortable for bicyclists as well as other vehicle drivers and passengers, but also tend to have somewhat less slowing effect. Bicyclists may pass between speed cushions, but this and the other devices should be clearly marked for visibility.

Speed humps are paved (usually asphalt), approximately 7.6 to 10.2 cm (3 to 4 in) high at their center, and usually extend the full width of the street with height tapering near the gutter for drainage. (ITE suggests an approximate 3.5 in maximum height due to the jarring that occurs at 4 in.¹) Space near the curb may also be provided to allow unimpeded bicycle travel or for a bike lane (but motorists may be tempted to use the area). (Speed humps should not be confused with the narrow speed "bump" that is often found in mall parking lots.) There are several designs for speed humps. The traditional 3.7 m (12 ft) hump has a design speed of 24 to 32 km/h (15 to 20 mi/h), a 4.3 m (14 ft) hump a few miles per hour higher.

Speed table is a term used to describe a very long and broad, or flat-topped, speed hump. Sometimes a pedestrian crossing is provided in the highest or flat portion of the speed table. A speed table can either be parabolic, making it more like a speed hump, or trapezoidal, which is used more frequently in Europe. A 6.7 m (22 ft) table has a design speed of 40 to 48 km/h (25 to 30 mi/h). The longer humps/tables are much gentler for larger vehicles. Speed tables can also be used in combination with curb extensions, where parking exists, to create pedestrian crossings.

Speed cushions, resembling a cushion or pillow placed longitudinally in the travel lane, are modified speed humps that do not span the entire roadway or lane width. The intent is to slow most motor vehicles similarly to speed humps and tables, but allow wide-axled vehicles such as buses and fire trucks to span and pass over the traffic calming device. These devices have been used to slow motor vehicles in Vancouver, WA, on a collector street used by emergency response and transit (see case study #30). Bicyclists typically ride between the cushions.

Speed humps and tables should probably be considered as "Plan B" on streets that are thoroughfares for bicyclists. Speed cushions may be somewhat more suitable for bicyclists. Use of other treatments such as mini circles, chicanes or chicane-like parking treatments, median islands, and curb radii reduction should also be examined. Bicyclists may, however, be more concerned with traffic speeds on local streets than with traversing raised devices, but should be included in traffic calming planning processes.