Hefty Fines Begin for Speeding in Manatee County School Zones as Grace Period Ends

Starting this week, drivers in Manatee County who fail to obey safety laws in school zones will face significant financial penalties. After a one-month grace period following the start of the school year, during which thousands of warnings were issued, fines will now be enforced.

At the beginning of the school year, Manatee County introduced 19 new speed cameras in school zones across the area. These cameras, implemented by county leaders, are designed to catch drivers exceeding the speed limit by at least 10 miles per hour. The goal is to improve safety for students and pedestrians near schools.

During the initial 30-day grace period, violators received warnings instead of fines, but starting Thursday, those caught speeding in these zones will be hit with a $100 fine. These cameras will monitor drivers not only when school zone lights are flashing but during all school hours, increasing the enforcement window to ensure maximum compliance.

Local authorities stress the importance of this initiative in safeguarding the community's children and urge drivers to slow down and pay attention to posted limits, especially during school hours.