What is the typical speed limit in a school zone during posted hours?

School zone speed limits are typically between 15 and 25 mph during posted hours, much lower than the surrounding road speed limit. Children near schools are unpredictable, often distracted, and may dart into the road without warning. Reduced speed gives drivers more time to react and dramatically reduces the chance of fatal injury if a collision occurs. School zone speed limits are usually in effect during specific hours (school arrival and dismissal) marked by flashing lights or posted hours. Violations in school zones often carry doubled fines. Watch carefully for children, crossing guards, and school buses (which require special yielding: when their stop arm is out, all traffic in most states must stop).