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 Mississippi, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children. The state has specific statutes that define the legal speed limits in school zones, which are typically lower than other areas. Drivers are expected to adhere to these posted limits during the times when the restrictions are in effect, usually indicated by signs with flashing lights or specific time periods when children are likely to be present. The conditions of the road, weather, visibility, and the presence of children are all factors that can affect what is considered a reasonable speed in these areas. Penalties for speeding in a school zone in Mississippi are more severe than for general speeding offenses. They often include higher fines and more demerit points on the driver's license, which can lead to increased insurance rates and even license suspension if too many points are accumulated. Local municipalities may also have their own ordinances that can impose additional penalties or fines for speeding in a school zone.