With the start of the school year so close, authorities in Dalton, Georgia, are reminding drivers about the importance of slowing down in areas near schools. This measure is being taken after several speeding incidents have caused accidents near local schools. Sergeant David Saylors urged all drivers to exercise extreme caution, not only in Dalton, but also in all neighboring areas of Whitfield and Catoosa.
Since March, surveillance cameras have been implemented near Dalton High School and Roan Street Elementary School. These cameras were installed to control speeding in these sensitive areas. The measure has become crucial to prevent more accidents, since traffic is usually heavy during student drop-off and pick-up hours.
Fines and consequences for speeding in Dalton
The speed limit in Dalton's school zones is 30 mph, and those who don't respect this limit for the first time will receive a fine of up to $100. In case of a repeat offense, the fine will increase to $150; this penalty applies to all drivers who exceed the limit by at least 10 mph. The goal is to increase student safety and prevent accidents during times of heavy traffic.
According to authorities, in the last 19 days of the school year, a total of 4,847 speeding tickets were issued. The figure reflects the growing concern for road safety in areas near schools. Sergeant Saylors emphasized that speeding not only puts students at risk, but also the drivers themselves.
The role of surveillance cameras in road safety
The surveillance cameras installed near schools were part of an effort to ensure that drivers respect speed limits. Although these cameras have been an important factor in detecting violations, authorities are also calling for personal responsibility behind the wheel. It's essential for drivers to slow down and focus on the road, especially during times of heavier traffic.
Saylors also mentioned that mobile phones are one of the main distractions causing accidents in school zones. He urged drivers to avoid using their phones while driving, suggesting that, if necessary, they store them in a safe place to prevent them from becoming a distraction during the trip.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) points out the seriousness of driving at high speed near school zones. According to its studies, the probability of survival for a child hit by a car at 40 mph (64 km/h) is only one in ten. However, at 20 mph (32 km/h), that probability increases significantly to nine out of ten.
Authorities in Dalton and other nearby areas are continuing their efforts to raise driver awareness about the importance of slowing down in school zones. Children's lives are valuable, and accidents can be prevented if road safety is taken into account and rules are respected.