New Bill Aims to Suspend Licenses for Speeding in School Zone

Two New York state politicians are looking to crack down on drivers who speed in school zones. Senator Jose Peralta and Assemblywoman Deborah Glick have proposed a bill that would suspend drivers’ licenses for 60 days after three or more violations during school hours in an 18-month period.

The announcement was held in front of P.S. 41 in Greenwich Village. “We have a speeding problem in one of every three schools in the city,” said Peralta. “If passed, this legislation will punish offenders by taking away their driver’s licenses for 60 days. We have a responsibility to hold reckless drivers accountable for their actions. Schools zones are now slow zones. Period.”

He added that more than 1,000 students under the age of 17 were injured in crashes last year, nine fatally. He also noted studies that show children under 14 are five times more likely to die if hit by a car going 35 mph versus a car going 25 mph.

Glick said every day one million children travel to and from school in New York City. When a parent or guardian sends their children to school, they deserve the peace of mind to know that speeding motorists will not put their children in danger.

Parents and educators at P.S. 41 have been pushing for the city to create a special slow zone around the school and along Sixth Avenue, reducing the speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 after a crash in front of the school injured a babysitter and toddler in 2013.

Under current law, drivers caught going up to 10 mph above the posted limit in a school zone face nearly $400 in fines and three points on their license. Those who exceed 10 mph above the posted limit face $700 in fines and 15 days in prison. Offenses can also lead to an increase in auto insurance rates.

If you or a loved one has been caught speeding, particularly in a school zone, you need legal representation to help you avoid the consequences associated with a ticket. The attorneys of the Rosenblum Law Firm have experience handling tickets for speeding and other driving-related offenses. Call 888-203-2619 or email the Rosenblum Law Firm today for a free consultation about your case.