All school zones are equipped with speed limit signs to remind drivers of the law requiring reduced speeds in these areas. However, these speed limit signs are easily overlooked, and speeders in school areas are extremely common.
The simplest way to catch the attention of drivers and ensure they slow down as they enter a school zone is through the use of school zone beacons. These beacons, when combined with time clocks, can come on during the hours just before and after school. During other hours of the day, the Beacons remain off.
This technique is more effective, of course than speed limit signs. However, it’s also more effective than using beacons that flash constantly as school zone warnings. Just like with the speed limit signs, drivers who regularly come through the area begin to ignore the flashing signs when they see them too frequently. Beacons that only flash during critical hours are simply more noticeable and have more of an impact on drivers.
Installing school zone beacons is a simple way that cities and counties can help protect children walking to and from school, as well as those on school buses and riding with parents. The systems are easy to install and are designed to be combined with time clocks for maximum effectiveness. Most experts recommend having law enforcement on site to issue tickets for speeders a week or so after the beacons are installed. This will give drivers who regularly come through the area time to acknowledge the beacons. Then, law enforcement can issue tickets to those who ignore the new warning.
Talk with local law enforcement about installing school zone beacons in your neighborhood to help improve the safety of your neighborhood. These systems are budget friendly and sure to reduce the number of speeders around your local schools.
