Florida traffic fines increase

slow down or pay up: traffic fines increase

Gov. Charlie Crist recently signed a new law to cut spending and increase revenues to help balance the state's budget.

The new law, effective since Feb. 1, revved up the fines for all traffic citations.

Some police officers have quietly grumbled about the increased traffic fines because they recognize the financial strain it creates for violators. Some officers say the new traffic fines, which seem to increase every year, are excessive, especially in light of the current recession.

Compassionate police officers — imagine that.

But rest assured, police officers will enforce the traffic laws and will continue to conduct traffic operations throughout the city.

The new law increased all traffic fines.

• All bicycle violations (regardless of your age) are now $57.50.

• Nonmoving violations are $101.

• Moving violations are $151.

• Red light violations are $216.

Then there's the downside to speeding.

• 6-9 mph over the limit is $116.

• 10-14 mph over is $191.

• 15-19 mph over is $241.

• 20-29 mph over is $266.

Get caught traveling 35 mph in a 15 mph school zone and the fine is $416.

And the motorcyclist who likes to pop a wheelie on the road will now face a fine of $1,151.

Bill Proffitt, St. Petersburg police spokesman