New York’s school zone traffic camera program revealed a real safety risk after the system spotted more than 12,000 speeders in 10 days

Speeding is a major safety problem in several parts of the country. However, many may not realize that some drivers also speed in school zones, which is a major concern for local communities. Now, some school zones are adding traffic cameras to keep students, staff and everyone else safe during business hours. Notably, they have also reduced the need for police traffic stops. Recently, some schools in Albany, New York, added cameras, leading to thousands of citations.

School zones need traffic cameras

Cities across the province are adding traffic cameras. In many ways they help reduce Police Traffic stops so officers can focus on other crimes. Now many school systems are also using these high-tech cameras to flag speeders. According to Times Unionschools in Albany, New York, have also started their own program for the cameras.

According to the report, the traffic cameras in the various school zones issued 12,895 citations within 10 days of official use. It is striking that the fines for speeding came into effect on October 7. One vehicle, a Toyota Corolla, received 29 citations during that time. Previously, there was a 30-day warning period for drivers. During that time, the system generated 14,834 warnings for drivers who were speeding.

Naturally, school officials are shocked by the impact the traffic cameras are having. Darius Shahinfar, the city’s treasurer, said: “My first thought was, ‘Damn, are this many people speeding in a school zone?'” However, Darius also notes that many of the city’s schools are located near four-lane highways. lie. roads, which is why people drive too fast so often.

There are currently eight traffic cameras in use. However, officials plan to have 20 in total, meaning the number of citations is expected to increase. The cameras are active from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The speed limit for the school zone is 20 miles per hour, and the system reports people going over 10 miles per hour. The fine is $50. The hope, of course, is that this will lead to drivers keeping an eye on their vehicles speed.