Speeding Tickets in School Zones

Because children may suddenly run into the street, always drive slowly and carefully near residential areas, parks, playgrounds, and schools. Children are particularly vulnerable because they have not yet developed the ability to judge speeds and distances well enough to cross streets safely when cars are moving fast. For these reasons, California school zones are given special consideration in the California Vehicle Code.

Unless otherwise posted, California law provides for a speed limit of 25 mph when driving within 500 to 1,000 feet of a school while children are outside or crossing the street. Never drive faster than 25 mph if the school grounds have no fence and children are outside. For most schools, the rules for “school zones” apply only during the hours when children are going to or leaving the school, and to the noon recess period when children may be playing outside. Be careful because the speed limit might be as low as 15 mph in some school zones.

In 2005, more than 3,000 children between the age of 5 and 14 were injured by vehicles in California, according to the report “Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety” issued by the California Office of Traffic Safety. California school zones “have been identified as danger zones for aggressive driving habits and behaviors.” These special laws for school zones protect vulnerable children.

If you received a speed ticket for speeding in a school zone, then contact an experienced traffic ticket attorney in San Francisco, CA, at Ticket Crushers. Call 1 (866) 842-5384 to discuss your traffic citation.