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 Alaska, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children and other pedestrians. The specific regulations and penalties can be found in Alaska's state statutes, which outline the legal speed limits and the consequences for exceeding them in designated school zones. These zones are typically marked with signs indicating the reduced speed limits during school hours or when children are present. The fines for speeding in a school zone in Alaska are indeed higher than for standard speeding violations. Additionally, drivers may receive demerit points on their driving record, which can lead to increased insurance rates and, with the accumulation of points, possible suspension of driving privileges. It's important to note that the exact fine and number of demerit points can vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether it is a repeat violation. Local municipalities may also have their own ordinances that could affect the penalties for speeding in a school zone within their jurisdiction.