Raleigh, NC — Drivers across North Carolina will need to exercise extra caution in school zones beginning this fall, as a new law allows the installation of speed-triggered cameras to catch speeders automatically.
New Law Signed to Improve Traffic Safety
Earlier this summer, the governor signed Senate Bill 391 into law, giving cities and counties the authority to set up cameras in school zones. The legislation is part of a larger Department of Transportation (DOT) effort aimed at enhancing traffic safety throughout the state.
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, between 2015 and 2019, the state recorded more than 700 school zone-related crashes, resulting in 17 deaths and over 3,000 injuries.
“The plan, outlined in section 13 of the bill, is designed to crack down on speeding using a generally automated process,” reported CBS17.
How the Cameras Will Work
Starting October 1, towns, cities, school boards, and counties across the state can begin installing special cameras in designated school zones. The law specifies:
- Clear warning signs must be posted within 1,000 feet of all camera zones.
- The cameras will capture images of speeding vehicles, including date, time, and recorded speed.
- Tickets must be signed by a sworn law enforcement officer to be valid.
Drivers caught by these cameras will face a flat $250 fine, but no points will be added to their license.
Ticket Payment and Appeals
Those issued tickets will have 30 days to either pay or appeal the citation. If ignored, a $50 late fee may be added, and the state may withhold car registration renewals until payment is made.
This system is intended to provide a fair yet automated method of enforcing school zone speed limits while keeping children and pedestrians safe.
Why This Matters
School zones are particularly vulnerable areas for crashes due to high pedestrian activity and reduced speed limits. Officials hope that automated enforcement will reduce injuries and fatalities associated with speeding.
- Over 700 crashes in school zones were recorded in a five-year period, with 17 fatalities.
- More than 3,000 injuries resulted from school zone-related accidents, highlighting the importance of stricter enforcement.
Traffic safety advocates and local governments view this measure as a necessary step toward protecting students and ensuring drivers comply with school zone regulations.
What do you think about North Carolina’s new speed cameras in school zones? Share your thoughts in the comments.
