As parents, students, and teachers return to the daily routine of school life, New York’s school zones become busier than ever. With increased traffic and stricter enforcement of speed limits in these areas, many drivers find themselves facing school zone speeding tickets—often without fully understanding the laws or potential consequences. At The Law Office of Craig Bondy, we specialize in helping New Yorkers navigate the complexities of traffic violations, including school zone speeding tickets. If you’ve received a ticket and are unsure of what to do next, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and let us guide you toward the best possible outcome.

School Zone Laws

Driving in school zones requires extra attention and caution to ensure the safety of children and pedestrians. Violating school zone laws can lead to serious penalties, so it’s essential to understand the rules that apply. Here’s what you need to know:

Typical Speed Limits in School Zones

In New York, school zone speed limits generally range from 15 to 25 mph, depending on the location. These reduced speed limits are typically in effect during school hours (7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on school days) or when children are present. In some areas, speed limits may also apply during special events, summer school, or when flashing lights indicate an active school zone. Always watch for posted signage to know the exact speed limit and enforcement hours for the zone you’re driving through.

Rules About Driving Near School Buses

Passing a stopped school bus in New York is illegal and carries steep fines and penalties. When a school bus displays red flashing lights, all drivers must stop, regardless of the direction they’re traveling, even on divided highways. This rule applies on all roads in the state, including private roads and parking lots. Failure to stop can result in hefty fines, points on your license, and even a possible license suspension.

What to Look Out For in School Zones

When driving in or near a school zone, it’s important to stay vigilant and watch for:

• Crosswalks and crossing guards: Always yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
• Children near the road: Kids may run into traffic unexpectedly, so reduce your speed and stay alert.
• Flashing school zone signs: These indicate active reduced speed limits.
• Speed cameras: Many school zones are equipped with automated cameras that issue tickets to speeding drivers, even if no officer is present.

By adhering to these rules, you can help ensure the safety of children while also avoiding costly tickets and legal complications.

If you’ve received a ticket for speeding in a school zone or violating school bus laws, the penalties can be severe. The Law Office of Craig Bondy is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the best outcome in your case. Contact us today for a consultation and let our experienced team protect your driving record.

School Zone Speeding Tickets

The penalties for a school zone speeding ticket can be severe, often exceeding the consequences of regular speeding tickets. Here’s what you need to know about the potential fines, points on your license, and other consequences:

Fines for School Zone Speeding Tickets

The fines for speeding in a school zone vary based on how far over the speed limit you were driving:

• 1-10 mph over the limit: Fines can range from $90 to $300.
• 11-20 mph over the limit: Fines increase to $180 to $600.
• More than 20 mph over the limit: Fines can reach as high as $1,200 or more.

During times of heightened enforcement, such as school hours or when flashing signs are active, the fines may be doubled.

Points on Your License

Speeding in a school zone also adds points to your driving record, which can impact your ability to maintain a valid license:

• 1-10 mph over the limit: 3 points.
• 11-20 mph over the limit: 4 points.
• 21-30 mph over the limit: 6 points.
• 31-40 mph over the limit: 8 points.
• Over 40 mph above the limit: 11 points, which can result in an automatic license suspension.

Accruing 6 or more points within 18 months can trigger the Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA), requiring you to pay an additional annual fee for three years.

Other Potential Penalties

• Insurance Premium Increases: A school zone speeding ticket can significantly raise your auto insurance rates.
• License Suspension or Revocation: Accumulating 11 or more points or multiple violations can lead to losing your driving privileges.
• Criminal Charges: In extreme cases, such as reckless speeding or causing injury, you may face criminal charges.

Given the high stakes, a school zone speeding ticket can have long-lasting consequences beyond the initial fine. At The Law Office of Craig Bondy, we understand how overwhelming these situations can be. Our experienced attorneys can help you fight your ticket, reduce penalties, and protect your driving record.

Should I Contest My School Zone Speeding Ticket?

Receiving a school zone speeding ticket can feel overwhelming, especially when you consider the steep fines, points on your license, and potential insurance hikes. However, you have the right to contest your ticket, and doing so can save you money, protect your driving record, and even prevent long-term consequences. Here’s why contesting your school zone speeding ticket is worth considering and how The Law Office of Craig Bondy can help.

Benefits of Contesting a School Zone Speeding Ticket

1. Avoid Costly Fines: Contesting your ticket could result in reduced fines or even a dismissal, saving you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
2. Prevent Points on Your License: Successfully fighting your ticket can help you avoid points on your license, which could otherwise lead to license suspension or additional fees like the Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA).
3. Minimize Insurance Increases: Speeding violations can cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket. Contesting your ticket may help you avoid this costly consequence.
4. Protect Your Driving Record: A clean driving record is important for maintaining low insurance rates and avoiding future penalties. Contesting a ticket can help keep your record intact.

How The Law Office of Craig Bondy Can Help

At The Law Office of Craig Bondy, we understand the complexities of New York traffic laws and have decades of experience successfully defending clients against school zone speeding tickets. Here’s what we do to build your defense:

1. Analyze the Evidence: We’ll review the details of your ticket, including radar or camera accuracy, signage visibility, and enforcement conditions, to identify any weaknesses in the case against you.
2. Challenge Speeding Allegations: Whether you were ticketed by an officer or caught on a speed camera, we’ll use proven legal strategies to challenge the validity of the ticket.
3. Negotiate for Reduced Penalties: If dismissal isn’t possible, we’ll work to reduce fines, points, or other penalties to minimize the impact on your life.
4. Provide Personalized Guidance: We’ll keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring you understand your options and feel confident in your defense.

Contesting a school zone speeding ticket is not only possible—it’s often the smartest choice. With the help of The Law Office of Craig Bondy, you can fight back against unfair penalties and protect your future. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Tips for Driving in a School Zone

Whether you’re commuting to work or picking up your kids, following these tips can help you stay safe, avoid violations, and ensure you’re in compliance with the law. Here are some essential guidelines for driving through school zones:

1. Obey the Posted Speed Limit

Always reduce your speed when entering a school zone, even if you don’t immediately see children. School zones are designed to protect kids and pedestrians, and speeding through these areas can result in hefty fines and serious consequences. Pay close attention to posted signs, as speed limits often change during school hours or when children are present.

2. Watch for Flashing Lights

Many school zones are equipped with flashing lights that signal when the reduced speed limit is in effect. These lights may flash during specific times, such as before and after school, or when children are nearby. Always slow down when you see these flashing lights, even if you don’t see any children in the vicinity.

3. Stop for School Buses

When a school bus has its red lights flashing and the stop sign extended, you must stop your vehicle—no exceptions. This applies to all lanes, even if you’re driving on a divided highway. Failing to stop for a school bus is a serious offense that can lead to fines, points on your license, and even suspension.

4. Stay Alert for Pedestrians

Children may cross the street unexpectedly, so it’s critical to stay alert while driving through a school zone. Look out for crossing guards, students on bicycles, and pedestrians walking to and from school. Always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, even if the traffic light is green.

5. Be Extra Cautious in School Parking Lots

School parking lots can be especially tricky during pick-up and drop-off times. Avoid speeding, and always yield to pedestrians. Watch for students who may be walking between parked cars or near drop-off zones.

6. Know the Hours of School Zone Enforcement

While many school zones have specific hours of enforcement, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution. Some school zones are active during summer school, after-school programs, or special events. Check for posted signs to know when reduced speed limits apply.

7. Be Mindful of School Zone Speed Cameras

Many New York school zones are equipped with automated speed cameras, which issue tickets to speeding drivers without the need for a police officer. These cameras typically operate during school hours and can result in a speeding ticket if you exceed the limit, even by a few miles per hour. Be sure to stay within the speed limit to avoid these automated violations.

By staying alert, following the rules, and reducing your speed in school zones, you can help ensure the safety of children and avoid costly fines or points on your driving record.

Defend Your School Zone Speeding Ticket

If you’ve received a school zone speeding ticket in New York, don’t face the consequences alone. The penalties for violating school zone laws can be significant, but with the help of The Law Office of Craig Bondy, you can protect your driving record, minimize fines, and avoid unnecessary complications. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing effective defense strategies and ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of your school zone speeding ticket.