August in Florida means back to school. It also means school zones are active, yellow buses are on the road, and inexperienced teen drivers are driving to high school. For commuters, this means mor...
August in Florida means back to school. It also means school zones are active, yellow buses are on the road, and inexperienced teen drivers are driving to high school. For commuters, this means more traffic and more responsibility. Accidents involving children in school zones are tragic and entirely preventable. Here is a refresher on Florida's laws to keep everyone safe.
School Zone Speed Limits
Speeding in a school zone is not just dangerous; it's expensive. Fines are doubled. But the real cost is the risk to a child. Children are unpredictable and may dart into the road. Driving 15-20 mph gives you the reaction time you need; driving 30 mph does not.
Stopping for School Buses
If a school bus extends its stop arm and flashes red lights, you MUST stop. On a two-way street, traffic in BOTH directions must stop. The only exception is if there is a raised median or physical barrier of at least 5 feet separating the lanes; in that case, oncoming traffic does not need to stop. Passing a stopped school bus is a serious offense with heavy points on your license.
The ban on Texting in School Zones
Florida law specifically prohibits using a handheld wireless device in a designated school crossing, school zone, or work zone. This is a primary offense, meaning you can be pulled over just for holding your phone.
Teen Driver Liability
Parents, if your teen is driving to school, remember that you are likely liable for their accidents. Make sure they understand the rules of the road and the dangers of distracted driving. A crash caused by your teen could put your family's assets at risk.
Contact Emas Law Group Today
Let's work together to make this school year accident-free. Slow down, put the phone away, and watch out for our kids. If your child has been injured by a negligent driver in a school zone, Emas Law Group will fight for their future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for school zones?
They vary, but are usually 30 minutes before and after school start/end times. Look for the flashing lights.
Can I get a ticket from a camera?
Yes. Florida recently authorized speed detection cameras in school zones to ticket drivers going more than 10 mph over the limit.
Is the school liable for accidents on campus?
Possibly, if they failed to provide adequate supervision or safe traffic flow (negligent security/design).