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 Jersey, the offense of speeding in a school zone is addressed under NJ Statutes Section 39:4-98.6, which stipulates enhanced penalties for drivers exceeding the posted speed limit in a designated school zone during specified hours. The law recognizes that school zones require a higher level of care due to the presence of children. The fines for speeding in a school zone in New Jersey are typically doubled when the offense occurs during the restricted hours, which are generally half an hour before and after the school day and during lunch periods when children are present. Additionally, points may be added to the driver's license, which can affect insurance rates and lead to further penalties if the driver accumulates too many points. It's important for drivers to be aware of the increased penalties and exercise caution when driving in school zones to ensure the safety of children and comply with state regulations.