MACON, Ga. — Speeding cameras are gaining popularity across Central Georgia.
In Macon-Bibb County, they're the source for tons of violations this fall. With more citations come more chances to challenge them. The process is a bit different from traffic court.
"If I had the time, I'd stand out there with a sign myself," said Jimmy Howard, talking about people who speed through school zones on Anthony Road.
The 70-year-old has lived nearby for 17 years. He likes the location, and the neighbors too; but he says he's tired of overgrown trees and debris in the neighborhood. That's what he says landed him in court Wednesday for a speeding ticket himself.
Howard says it's hard to tell what's a school zone, and what's not, because the trees in the neighborhood can block the signs. On top of that, there are no signs on any of the side streets that feed onto Anthony Road.
"I don't have kids in school. When school is in and when school is out, if you don't post that where the public can see it, and you bring it to the courtrooms, is that fair to me?" Howard asked.
In the end, Judge Crystal Jones ruled yes, it is fair. Our cameras weren't allowed in the courtroom, but Judge Jones explained this court session is different. Unlike traffic court, you can't get points on your license, jail time or traffic school. Instead, they're there for one thing: deciding whether the county can fine you.
Howard says he doesn't mind the fine, but he does want the county to do something beyond fining people, to make things safer for school kids.
"You've got school resource officers. They've got patrol cars with flashing lights on them that they can put in the center lane. They've got bumper strips that they can put across the road. They can stay there 24/7," Howard suggested.
Judge Jones also mentioned that you can hire a lawyer for municipal court. She says most people don't realize that. Jones says you need to make sure you want a lawyer before you come to court, because the court can't push back your hearing. Only the county can.
If you do get a speeding ticket, you can pay online, by phone or by mail. Judge Jones says detailed instructions come with the tickets.