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Letter to the editor

Schools

Some advice: Slow down, go to school

By Times Staff Writer
Published August 26, 2007

ST. PETERSBURG

The school year has begun, and we all need to remember a few things about safety and our wallets.

School zones are back. St. Petersburg fire and personnel and the Police Department had crews at school zones Tuesday to remind motorists.

Please drive cautiously in school zones because we patrol them for speed violators (hint, hint), morning and afternoon. If you don't obey the 15 mph limit in a school zone, here is the bad news:

- 6-9 mph over the 15 mph limit results in a fine of $110.50.

- 10-14 mph over is $260.50.

- 15-19 mph over is $310.50. So if you drive 35 mph in a school zone, the normal speed limit on most roads in the city, you will receive a fine of $360.50. Anyone caught going 45 mph or higher in a school zone receives a mandatory court appearance and a stiffer fine.

And don't forget the points on your license and increased insurance premiums.

School attendance is mandatory for all children between 6 and 16, and parents are held responsible.

If parents need help, they can contact the South County Truancy Interdiction Center at (727) 502-0151, or visit the Web site at www.stpetepal.org.

The interdiction center, funded by the Juvenile Welfare Board, works with St. Petersburg police, Police Athletic League, the School Board and Family Resources. The center helps students and parents comply with mandatory attendance. If you see school-age children loitering during the school day, report them by calling police at (727) 893-7780. An officer will take them to the interdiction center. A specialist will work with the student and parents.

Bill Proffitt, police spokesman

[Last modified August 25, 2007, 22:31:02]