New Speed Enforcement Program Launched in Tallahassee School Zones

News Summary

Tallahassee has introduced a new School Zone Speed Enforcement Program aimed at enhancing safety in school zones across the city. With cameras placed in 25 school zones, the program encourages responsible driving by issuing citations for speeding. Drivers will initially receive warnings for 30 days as they adjust to the new regulations. The initiative is expected to fund its operational costs through ticket revenue without burdening taxpayers.

Exciting News for Tallahassee: New Speed Enforcement Program in School Zones!

The city of Tallahassee has kicked off an innovative program aimed at promoting safety within school zones! With the recent launch of the School Zone Speed Enforcement Program, the Tallahassee Police Department is stepping up to create a safer environment for our children, staff, and pedestrians.

What’s the Big Idea?

This initiative comes as a result of an ordinance passed by the City of Tallahassee, following a state law that was enacted in 2024. The main goal? To deter speeding in areas where children are present while encouraging all drivers to be more responsible behind the wheel. Sounds like a win-win, right?

Cameras Are Rolling!

The TPD will be placing cameras strategically in 25 school zones across Leon County. Just this week, the cameras have gone live near several local schools, including Raa Middle School, Ruediger Elementary School, and DeSoto Trail Elementary School. Now, drivers need to be especially mindful as these cameras are actively monitoring speed limits throughout the entire school day, not just when those familiar school zone lights are flashing!

Here’s How It Works

If drivers are caught speeding—specifically going over the limit by more than 10 miles per hour—they will receive a citation in the mail with a hefty fine of $100. However, it’s not all penalties right off the bat! The program features a 30-day education period where drivers will receive warnings instead of tickets as soon as the cameras go live. This aims to give everyone a fair chance to adjust and learn the new regulations.

Initial Results Are Eye-Opening

Your Rights as a Driver

30 days to either pay the fine or request a hearing. Additionally, these citations are civil violations, so they won’t impact your driver’s license or car insurance. If the vehicle’s registered owner was not the one driving, they can submit an affidavit to properly identify the actual driver.

Quality Control In Place

Additionally, a quality control officer will regularly review issued tickets to ensure fairness. If a driver is cited by both a camera and an officer, only the officer’s issued ticket will be enforceable, which is a nice touch for ensuring fair treatment.

Aiming for Safety

As a part of this new program, the cameras will remain off during weekends and school breaks, with some exceptions during summer school sessions. The idea is simple: create a safer environment for everyone, especially the young ones who are our future. So, next time you find yourself driving through a school zone, remember to adhere to the speed limits. Your cautious driving could help save lives!

With this new initiative in Tallahassee, let’s all do our part to ensure our roads are safe. Who knew that a little bit of technology could make such a big difference? Stay safe out there!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tallahassee Schools Face Changes with New Regulations

Additional Resources

• Tallahassee.com: New School Zone Cameras
• Tallahassee Reports: School Zone Camera Safety Program
• MSN: Speed Zone Cameras in Leon County
• WTXL: Personal Testimony on Speeding Cameras
• Click Orlando: Eustis School Zone Speed Cameras
• Wikipedia: Traffic Enforcement Camera
• Google Search: School Zone Camera Program
• Google Scholar: School Zone Traffic Enforcement
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Enforcement
• Google News: School Traffic Safety