Decatur, GA (September 30, 2024) - The City of Decatur Police Department is implementing an automated photo speed enforcement program following a study that identified speeding as a significant issue in school zones. Cameras will be placed near Beacon Hill Middle School, Clairemont Elementary School, Westchester Elementary School, and Winnona Park Elementary School to deter speeding motorists.
The study's data revealed that of approximately 167,941 drivers passing through the school zones per week, around 20,711 (12.33%) were speeding. Among the speeders, a staggering 6,682 (32.26%) were traveling 15-20 MPH above the posted school zone speed limit, and 2,204 (10.64%) of those speeders exceeded the speed limit by over 21 MPH.
Statistics show that a child hit by a car traveling at 40 MPH has a 1 in 10 chance of survival. If the speed is reduced to 20 MPH, the child's survival rate improves to 9 in 10. Speeding is a significant factor in accidents, causing injuries and deaths. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 64% of child pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents during the week between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. The aim is to enhance safety in Decatur school zones for students, parents, teachers, and motorists through a 3-step program:
The goal is to improve safety in Decatur school zones for students, parents, teachers, and motorists through a 3-step program:
1. Public information & education
2. 30-day warning period
3. Citations for violators of school zone speed limits
School zones are indicated by posted speed limit signs, flashing lights, and other alerts. Recently installed cameras will identify drivers not following the speed limit by traveling at 10+ MPH over the posted speed limit.
A warning period for motorists who violate the school zone speed limit will begin on Monday, October 14, 2024. Violators will receive a warning in the mail marked in red. Live enforcement will start on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Motorists who exceed the speed limit by 10+ MPH will receive a citation with a $100 fine for the first violation and $150 for subsequent violations. Photo speed cameras will be active on school days during school zone hours.
The City of Decatur is dedicated to changing driver behavior, reducing speeding, and safeguarding our children. We urge everyone to drive safely in our school zones and community. You can find more information on the new automated photo speed enforcement program at decaturga.com/schoolzones. For more information about the City of Decatur, please visit www.decaturga.com. Follow the City of Decatur on Facebook and Twitter @CityofDecaturga.
Decatur Police Department
420 West Trinity Place
Decatur, GA 30030
Open 24 Hours
404-373-6551
Services provided:
- Report A Crime
- Post a Bond
- Retrieve Property
- Request Background Checks
- Obtain Vehicle Release
- Submit Open Records Requests
- Meet with Police Personnel
- Obtain Taxi, Door-To-Door Solicitation, Alcoholic Beverage Operations and Licensing Permits
Decatur Municipal Court
420 West Trinity Place
Decatur, GA 30030
Open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
678-553-6655
Services provided:
- Pay Traffic Tickets
- Attend Court Hearings
- Post a Bond
- Request Court Continuances, etc.
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More About the Decatur Police Department
The Police Department protects proactive patrolling, crime prevention, and investigation. Employees also provide information and general assistance to the public, special emergency services in hazardous materials incidents, extreme weather conditions, and similar emergencies, and assistance to emergency medical service personnel when requested.