School Zone Speedsters: Nearly 10,000 Violations in Jacksonville
Over just three days in 11 school zones across Jacksonville, Fla., nearly 10,000 speeding violations were captured.
This is from a recent study conducted by Verra Mobility, where they uncovered more alarming speed stats.
After HB 657 passed in Florida last year, the speed study was conducted throughout dozens of Florida communities over a three-day period to better understand the speeding issues within local school zones.
In Jacksonville, 11 of the 205 school zones were monitored, resulting in 9,832 potential speeding violations, according to the company's news release.
Among the most alarming findings:
- Ford Elementary had the highest number of speeding violations of local schools, with more than 3,000 potential violations – 43% of all morning drop-off traffic.
- More than 1,000 vehicles were registered speeding through New Berlin Elementary School. This equates to 9% of all traffic.
- Payne Elementary showed nearly 800 potential speeding violations equating to 27% of all traffic.
- Chimney Lakes Elementary captured 16% of morning traffic and nearly 8% of all traffic during pick-up violated the posted speed, resulting in more than 1,000 speeding vehicles.
Verra Mobility said that most drivers are unaware of the low-speed limits in school zones: A public opinion survey conducted by Sachs Media found that only 35% of Floridians know the maximum speed limit in school zones is 20 mph.
Floridians Support Increased Safety Measures to Protect Children
Despite the number of violations noted, the study also found overwhelming support among area residents.
- 80% of Floridians support cameras in school zones to catch speeding drivers, and 87% back the use of cameras on school buses to enforce stop laws.
- Three out of four respondents expressed worries about distracted drivers putting children in danger on the road around schools and school buses.
Verra Mobility said it plans to work with Florida communities to implement solutions to these issues.
"Our existing school zone camera programs have shown significant reductions in speeding violations, with some programs achieving a 70% decrease in violations – proving that these programs work to change driver behavior," their news release stated.
"This study underscores the need for increased awareness and enforcement of school zone safety measures. With public support for stronger protections, Florida communities have an opportunity to make significant strides in keeping children safe."