Traffic Enforcement

Citizen-generated traffic complaints are very common in all communities and Fernandina Beach is no exception. In fact, very few things cause people as much anxiety as when drivers speed through the neighborhood while young children are outside playing.


Report Traffic Problems

If you notice a pattern of traffic violations in your neighborhood or during your normal commute, let us know. To report a traffic complaint submit an email or call our Dispatch Center or Operations Bureau Captain at (904) 277-7342. Similarly, if you are aware of habitually poor drivers or aggressive drivers, you can also let us know. The Police Department will contact these persons and advise them of anonymous complaints, perhaps helping to change behaviors and averting potential tragedy.


The Fernandina Beach Police Department utilizes traffic radar units in every marked patrol car to assist in our goal of reducing incidents of speeding and aggressive driving in our neighborhoods and main traffic corridors, and to reduce the number of traffic crashes within our jurisdiction. We also employ radar signs at various locations to educate and remind motorists of speed limits in some areas of the City, and to allow them the opportunity to assess their own driving habits. In addition, we utilize in-car video cameras that record audio and video of each traffic stop, for use in court, for training purposes, and for compliance with state mandated racial profiling statutes.


Upon fielding complaints of traffic-related issues we are also equipped to conduct our own analysis of conditions and traffic patterns. We utilize StealthStat technology to conduct covert studies of traffic flow, volume and speed, so that our data isn’t skewed by obvious or visual methods, such as road strips or other counting measures, or by the “squeaky wheel” complainant that may unknowingly exaggerate conditions in order to ensure more police presence in their respective neighborhood. The StealthStat features K-band radar working together with a palmtop PC to gather speeds and process data. It remains unmanned so that our police officers are left free to handle other calls for service. After a predetermined period of time the information is downloaded and charted for analysis and “information-driven” enforcement decisions.


DUI

The Fernandina Beach Police Department recognizes that alcohol and/or narcotics often play a precursory role in serious traffic crashes. All of our officers are trained in DUI detection and aggressively enforce DUI laws. We encourage personal responsibility when legally consuming alcohol or prescription drugs and actively promote the practice of utilizing a designated driver or alternate transportation.