The infraction or offense of speeding in a school zone is committed when the driver of a motor vehicle in a marked school zone exceeds the posted speed limit or exceeds the speed limit that is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances or conditions—conditions such as the road (straight, curved, wet, dry, icy, flat, hilly); the weather (clear, foggy, raining, snowing); the visibility; and the presence of children in a crosswalk, for example.
Laws regarding speeding in a school zone vary from state to state and among cities and towns and are usually located in a state’s statutes and sometimes in local ordinances enacted by cities or towns.
The penalty for speeding in a school zone is usually a fine and demerit points added to the driver’s license or driving record. But the fines and penalties for speeding in a school zone are usually much greater than for a typical speeding ticket or citation.
In Texas, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children. The Texas Transportation Code sets forth the regulations for driving in a school zone. Speed limits in these areas are typically reduced during certain times when children are likely to be present, such as when school begins and ends. The specific times are often indicated by signs with flashing lights or a posted schedule. Fines for speeding in a school zone in Texas are generally higher than for other speeding offenses. Additionally, Texas employs a point system, where points are added to a driver's license for traffic violations. Accumulating too many points can lead to further penalties, such as surcharges or license suspension. Local municipalities may have additional ordinances that further regulate speeding in school zones and impose additional penalties. It is important for drivers to be aware of and adhere to the posted speed limits, especially in school zones, to ensure the safety of children and to avoid the increased penalties associated with these infractions.
