Cape Coral school zone cameras catch thousands of speeders

Cape Coral drivers are being reminded to slow down in school zones as speed cameras continue to monitor traffic during active hours. Amy Beegle, a Cape Coral resident, said she is tired of speeding in the area and hopes the cameras will make a difference. "I have been in the close call a couple of times and then got my dash camera. So hopefully it can start to dwindle down a bit and people will be a little bit safer," Beegle said. Records show the cameras issued 39,000 notices of violation in their first year, with more than 3,400 escalating to formal traffic citations. Beegle said she wasn’t surprised by the numbers. "I would think that the numbers would be higher, actually, because of the number of people that I see speeding," Beegle said. The cameras operate during active school zone hours, which include 30 minutes before, during, and after school when the flashing lights are on. Drivers exceeding the posted limit by more than 10 miles per hour can face a $100 penalty. Beegle hopes the flashing lights will encourage drivers to slow down before the cameras catch them. "I think the kids should feel safe going to school," Beegle said. She added, "If people, you know, remove their heads from their rears, it would be a lot safer." Drivers are urged to pay attention to the flashing lights and signs, which signal that the cameras are actively monitoring speed in school zones. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.