In the past the Zephyrhills and Pasco County law enforcement officers have been reasonably flexible when it came to issuing speeding tickets. Depending on the circumstances, they would sometimes let you go with a warning unless you were WAY over the limits. However, one of my family members (who easily qualifies for Social Security) was ticketed within the city limits. She was distracted momentarily and did not see the flashing lights near a school that indicated the speed limit had been temporarily dropped from 30 miles per hour to 15. The ticket cost her $279 and that is a lot for a senior citizen on a fixed income. But the law is the law.
What I am wondering is if since our property taxes were reduced, in many cases, and local municipal budgets were cut, are the police now having to be stricter to increase the money they bring in via fines? When money is tight they may not have the flexibility to be lenient anymore. I am not in any way saying that they are being unfair. These are not "speed traps" like exist in some areas. If we go over the speed limit or go through a stop sign, we are guilty and must pay the piper. The officers are just doing their jobs. I am simply wondering if the lower taxes have made them stricter?
In any case, do watch your speed around town and the surrounding areas. Those fines can hurt. And in the end, the limits are there to protect us and others who use the roads. So stay alert and avoid those costly fines!
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