Slow Down, the Kids Are Going Back to School

Speeders beware: School is back in session.

That's the message from Clearwater Police, who will be on the lookout for speeders in school zones and near bus stops when .

"Operation School STEP (Special Traffic Enforcement Program)" runs from Aug. 20-22 and will focus on speeding violations and safe driving as students arrive and are dismissed from school.

Speeding violations in schools zones could cost you. Here are the minimum fines:

• 1-9 mph over the speed limit = $156
• 10-14 mph over the speed limit = $306
• 15-19 mph over the speed limit = $406
• 20-29 mph over the speed limit = $456
• Over 30 = court appearance

At bus stops, drivers are reminded that they:

• Must come to a stop behind the school bus when the stop signals are activated and the stop arm is extended.
• Must stop if coming from the opposite direction, unless there is a raised median separating the two directions of travel.

Failing to stop for a school bus will result in a $271 fine.

Officers will also be enforcing pedestrian safety, including violating the right of way of a pedestrian in a crosswalk.