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 Connecticut, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children and pedestrians. The state has specific statutes that address speeding in school zones, typically found under the state's motor vehicle laws. The law stipulates reduced speed limits in school zones during certain times, usually when children are arriving at or leaving school. Drivers are expected to adhere to the posted speed limits, which are often significantly lower than the regular speed limits on adjacent roadways. 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 Connecticut are indeed more severe than for non-school zone violations and can include increased fines and points on the driver's license. The exact fine and points can vary depending on the speed over the limit and the specific municipality's ordinances. Repeat offenses may lead to even higher penalties and potential license suspension. It is important for drivers to be vigilant and reduce speed accordingly in school zones to ensure safety and compliance with the law.