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Delray Beach Police Department warns drivers of school zone speed limits

Posted at 6:31 PM, Aug 14, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-15 04:54:55-04

At Pompey Park in Delray Beach, you can tell its back to school time. 

Melissa Gibbs holds an event there every year to prep area kids for back to school time.

"We do all their hair for free we give them backpacks, school supplies."

Melissa is a mother of three, and has her children ready. Now she just hopes those behind the wheel are ready as well.

"Just drive safe, look out for kids, just to make sure you look twice," says Gibbs.

You can expect a lot more officers out Monday morning making sure kids get to school safely, especially when it comes to making sure drivers obey school zone speed limits.

Delray Beach police say the first couple of weeks is tough with drivers getting used to the speed limits. 

That's why the department will have those extra patrols.

According to AAA, Florida has the second highest number of child pedestrian deaths in the country.

Delray Beach Police Chief Jeff Goldman knows this and says it comes down to distracted driving.

"It's a staggering number seeing these kids get hit during the school hours after or before school, but working together with slowing down your speed, putting down your phone, paying attention to your surroundings, you can make a successful school year," said Goldman.

You can expect a hefty fine if you are caught speeding in a school zone. It varies on how fast you are going, but usually ranges between $300 to $400.