Safety measure or revenue generator? That’s the question on Chicagoans’ minds after this controversial new law was implemented in the city starting this March. Drivers will be fined $35 for driving up to 6 miles per hour over the speed limit as stricter speed camera enforcement goes into effect.

Even steeper fines of $100 will be issued out to those traveling 11 miles per hour over the speed limit. With over 140 high-speed cameras installed in the city, Chicago drivers will have to be careful if they want to avoid a ticket. More than 52,000 warning notices were sent out in the first week of a grace period that started in January alone. Tickets are sent to your house through the mail.

Chicago Mayor, Lori Lightfoot explained that the new fines are meant to deter speeding. Auto fatalities in the city are up 35% as compared to 2019.

Though fines are a great way to change driving etiquette, critics are pointing out Chicago’s $1.2 billion deficit last year, which many say is the likely cause for the hiked-up fines. If you find yourself driving in Chicago be sure to keep an eye on your speedometer or risk finding a ticket in your mailbox.