Speed enforced for start of school

After a hot, leadfooted summer, Carson City drivers should be on the lookout for students and the diligent eyes of sheriff's deputies today when they pass through school zones, officials said Monday.

"We are increasing awareness to let everyone know that school is back in session," said Chief Deputy Steve Schuette of the Carson City Sheriff's Department. "People have been off all summer, they're not used to the school zones, but they need to slow down and watch for the flashing lights."

For the next two weeks heavy enforcement will be visible in the schools' 15 mph zones, especially around elementary schools where the students are more prone to dart into traffic without looking, Schuette said.

He said dayshift patrols have been increased for school-zone enforcement. Any deputy not on a call is directed to enforce speed limits in the school zones. If drivers don't see deputies, they can be sure they'll see the department's mobile radar trailers.

"Our enforcement will be heaviest during the vital times -- morning when school starts and afternoons when it lets out," Schuette said. School zone fines are heavier than in years past,Ehe said.

Drivers cited going 16 to 24 mph will receive a fine of $75 plus an administrative fee of $67. Drivers cited 25 mph or over will be fined $100 with an administrative fee of $87.

"It's not cheap," Schuette noted.

In July the Sheriff's Department issued 360 moving violations.