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 Colorado, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children and pedestrians. The specific regulations and penalties are outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) and local ordinances. Drivers are expected to adhere to the posted speed limits, which are often reduced in school zones during certain times of the day when children are likely to be present. The fines for speeding in a school zone in Colorado are typically higher than for other speeding offenses. Additionally, points may be added to the driver's license, which can affect insurance rates and driving privileges. The exact penalty can vary depending on the speed over the limit and the municipality, but the intent is to deter speeding and enhance safety in areas where children are present.