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 Tennessee, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children and pedestrians. Tennessee law stipulates lower speed limits in school zones during designated times when children are likely to be present, typically marked with flashing lights or signs indicating the active times. Drivers are expected to adhere to these posted limits, which are often significantly lower than the regular speed limit for the area. The fines for speeding in a school zone in Tennessee are generally higher than for other speeding offenses. Additionally, drivers may receive demerit points on their driving record, which can lead to increased insurance rates and, with the accumulation of points, potential suspension of driving privileges. The exact penalties can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the driver's history, but the intent of these laws is to ensure the safety of children and to encourage drivers to exercise greater caution in these sensitive areas.