What is Speeding in a School Zone?
625 ILCS 5/11-605 prohibits vehicles from traveling more than twenty (20) MPH in school zones on school days when children are present and close enough to create a potential hazard. Signs must be posted indicating where a school zone begins and ends. For purposes of this statute, a school day begins at 6:30 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m.
What are the Potential Penalties for Speeding in a School Zone?
Generally
Speeding in a School Zone has the same classifications as speeding tickets:
- Speeding 1-25 MPH over the limit is a petty offense.
- Aggravated Speeding 26-34 MPH over the limit is a Class B misdemeanor.
- Aggravated Speeding 35+ over the speed limit is a Class A misdemeanor.
Can I get Court Supervision?
No. Speeding in a School Zone does not allow for a sentence of court supervision. 730 ILCS 5/5-6-1(f).
Possible Sentences: Conditional Discharge or Probation
You can receive up to six (6) months of conditional discharge or probation for a petty offense violation. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-75. Class A or Class B violations of this offense are punishable by a maximum of two (2) years conditional discharge or probation. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-60, 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-55.
Do I Have to Complete Driver Improvement School?
Maybe. A judge can require you complete driver improvement school, a defensive driving class, or even a victim impact panel if they feel it would be an appropriate condition of your sentence.
Could My License be Suspended or Revoked?
The Secretary of State cannot suspend or revoke your license based solely on a violation of this offense. However, this offense in combination with other offenses could result in the suspension or revocation of your license.
Could I be Sentenced to Jail?
Yes. A Class B violation of this offense is punishable by up to 6 months in jail. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-60(a). Class A violations of this offense are punishable by up to 1 year in jail. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-55(a).
How Much Could I be Fined?
Speeding in violation of 625 ILCS 5/11-605 carries a minimum fine of one-hundred-fifty dollars ($150) for a first violation and a minimum three hundred dollars ($300) fine for a second violation. 625 ILCS 5/11-605(e). A petty offense carries a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), a Class B offense carries a maximum fine of one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500.00), and a Class A violation carries a maximum fine of two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500.00).
You may also be assessed court costs in addition to any fine. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-75(a)
Collateral Consequences of a Speeding in a Construction Zone
In addition to any criminal penalties, you should consider several other factors:
Secretary of State Suspension or Revocation- Anytime you commit a traffic violation, the Illinois Secretary of State may suspend or revoke your driving privileges based upon the facts of your case and your driving history.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)- If you have a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), a traffic ticket could lead to suspension or revocation of your CDL privileges.
Insurance- Your insurance company may consider your traffic offense and driving history when assessing your insurance rates.
Closing Thoughts
Speeding in a School Zone can lead to suspension or revocation of your driver's license, CDL, or changes to your insurance rate.
Every case is unique. It is essential to consult with an attorney who can help you determine your best options moving forward. An attorney can review the facts of your case and the evidence against you to help determine the best course of action for you and your case.
If you have received a traffic ticket, we can help. Our firm has defended traffic tickets in the Chicagoland area for over 30 years. Call our office for a free consultation if you have received a ticket in DuPage, Cook, Lake, Kane, Will, or Kendall County.
Comments