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 Vermont, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children. Vermont law stipulates reduced speed limits in school zones during specified times when children are likely to be present, typically during school hours and when school activities are occurring. Drivers must adhere to the posted speed limits, which are often significantly lower than on surrounding roads. 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 Vermont are more severe than for general speeding offenses. They can include increased fines, which may be doubled in some cases, and points added to the driver's license, which can affect insurance rates and driving privileges. The exact penalties can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the driver's record. It's important for drivers to be vigilant and reduce speed accordingly in school zones to ensure the safety of children and to avoid these enhanced penalties.