New Georgia School Zone Safety Laws

According to the National Safety Council, school bus-related accidents killed 128 people in 2023, with most school bus related deaths being passengers of other vehicles. Due to cars going high speeds or not stopping when a school bus’s stop sign is showing, Georgia implemented stronger protections to keep their school zones safe for children and other drivers.

What Is a School Zone?

Georgia considered a school zone to be any area near a school that has specific traffic regulations in place to protect the students and staff members. These zones are typically marked with signs indicating drivers must slow down during school hours. In many locations, flashing lights are used to signal when reduced speed limits are in effect.

School zone laws usually apply during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal times, though exact hours are posted on signage. Drivers are expected to follow these rules whenever school zone restrictions are active.

Passing Stopped School Buses

Georgia passed Addy’s Law in 2024 that imposed stricter fines and penalties for drivers if they passed a stopped school bus. Georgia Law states you cannot pass a stopped school bus with hazard lights on, an extended stop arm present. The only expectation is when there is a physical median present, cars may pass.

Penalties for passing a stopped school bus can include:

• Up to $1,000 fine
• Up to 12 months jail time
• 6 points on your driving record
• Suspended license if you’re under 21

Speeding in School Zones

Georgia passed a law to introduce the use of automated speed-detecting cameras in school zones to ticket speeding drivers. Penalties for a first offense are $75, with each subsequent offense being $125 or more for going 11+MPH over the school zone speed limit. Drivers who avoid paying their fees could face more severe consequences, such as their car registration renewal being denied.

Cameras are typically active one hour before the first bell and one hour after the dismissal bell for the school day. These enforcement measures are intended to deter speeding and reduce accidents in areas where children are present.

However, there has been recent backlash over automated cameras, with reports of frequent errors and innocent drivers receiving citations. In these situations, the best course of action is to gather evidence and pursue legal action if necessary.

Distracted Driving in School Zones

Another major reason for car accidents in Georgia’s school zones are due to distracted driving. Georgia’s hands-free law prohibits drivers from using handheld electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle and this is strictly enforced in school zones due to the high risk to students and staff.

Children can often be unpredictable near schools and a momentary distraction can turn disastrous if a driver isn’t paying attention to the road at all times. If you receive a violation for distracted driving near a school zone, it may result in increased penalties due to the increased danger to the students.

Increased Enforcement During the School Year

Due to these stricter restrictions on safety in Georgia’s school zones, law enforcement are more likely to be present during peak times throughout the school year. This often includes the first few weeks of the school year or after long holiday breaks.

The presence of law enforcement is a reminder to drivers to stay focused on the road and urge them to avoid speeding, illegally passing a school bus, or getting distracted while driving.

What You Can Do

Drivers can reduce risks by slowing down, staying alert, and watching for children at all times in school zones. Avoid distractions, obey posted signs, and be prepared to stop suddenly. Extra caution during school hours can prevent accidents and save lives. If an accident did occur, you can discuss your legal options with who can guide you through the litigation process.