SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – Savannah Police and Chatham County Police will begin issuing fines to drivers caught speeding in school zones Monday, Aug. 17, following a two-week warning period.
The speed cameras were reactivated Aug. 3, the first day of school across Chatham County. Since then, Savannah Police have issued 606 warning citations.
How the cameras work
The cameras operate 45 minutes before school begins, remain active throughout the school day and deactivate 30 minutes after dismissal. The enforcement threshold is 10 miles per hour over the reduced speed limit when a school zone reduction is in effect, or 10 miles per hour over the posted school zone speed limit when no reduction is in effect.
Fine structure
Fines are determined by state law. A first offense carries a $75 fine plus a $10 processing fee. Second and subsequent offenses are subject to a $125 fine plus a $10 processing fee.
Citations are sent to the registered owner of the vehicle and do not affect driver’s license points. Failure to pay fines will result in the vehicle owner being unable to renew their vehicle tag until all fines are paid.
Neighbors weigh in
Residents near East Broad Street Elementary School say speeding is a visible problem in the area. Wes Johnson, who lives in the school zone, said the street can feel unsafe…