Florida drivers could be charged over $500 if they violate this law

Back to School: Increase in students taking bus

FOX 35's Randi Hildreth speaks with Arby Creach, the transportation director in Osceola County, about how they plan to keep up with the potential increase in students taking the school bus this year.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. - As backpacks and lunchboxes replace beach towels and sunscreen, Florida drivers must shift their focus from summer drives to speed limits.

In Florida, fines for speeding in a school zone are doubled – which means you could dish out over $500 for going fast in a marked area, according to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles. The speed limit around schools is either 15 mph or 20 mph – so keep that in mind the next time you drop your child off or pass by a school on your way to work.

"Our assumption is that no one would intentionally speed in a school zone or pass a school bus," the DMV said on its website. "The primary reason that drivers break these rules is lack of attention. If you have ever driven 5 blocks and can't remember it you know what we mean. Day dreaming, listening to music, or talking on your cell phone are a few examples of activities that distract you from driving."

Fines vary county to county, but in Orange County the penalty for speeding 20-29 mph over the speed limit is $558. Here's a look at the other fines: