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 New York, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children. The specific regulations are outlined in the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL). Drivers are expected to adhere to the posted speed limits, which are often reduced during school hours or when children are present. The fines for speeding in a school zone in New York are typically higher than for other speeding offenses. Additionally, points may be added to the driver's license, which can lead to increased insurance rates and the potential for license suspension if too many points are accumulated. The exact penalty can vary depending on how much the driver exceeds the speed limit and other factors such as prior offenses. It's important for drivers to be aware of and comply with the specific speed limits and traffic rules in school zones to ensure the safety of children and to avoid the increased penalties associated with these infractions.