AI-Powered Cameras To Enforce School Bus Safety in Lee County, $225 Fines Begin December

Lee County schools will fine drivers $225 starting Dec. 8 if they blow past stopped buses using artificial intelligence cameras.

Since Nov. 6, drivers caught on camera have gotten off with just warnings. Officials wanted to give drivers a chance to learn about the new system. Every violation gets checked by a real person before any fine goes out.

In 2024, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles logged 181 crashes involving school buses in Lee County. District leaders say even one crash is one too many.

Lee County installed these cameras to protect students as they get on and off buses. State law says drivers must stop when a bus extends its stop arm and red lights start flashing.