Speeding in a school or construction zones lawyer in florida
Fight Your Ticket Now
No Points Guarantee
No School
No Court
Starting at $69
The Seriousness of Speeding in School and Construction Zones
Speeding in a school zone or construction zone in Florida is a serious offense. Florida Statute 316.1895 establishes elevated penalties for speeding in a school or construction zone due to the safety risk to children and workers.
Fines are doubled in school and construction zones, making them more costly than regular speeding tickets. Many school zones have 20 MPH speed limits. Drivers are required to follow the lower speed limit during posted hours and when signals are flashing.
Construction zones often have temporary speed limit signs that are lower than the regular speed limit. The lower limit must be obeyed, especially when construction workers are on-site.
Speeding in a school zone or construction zone can result in fines, driver’s license points, mandatory court appearances, and increased insurance rates.
Were you charged with speeding in a school or construction zone? You need a skilled speeding ticket attorney to fight the charge. The Ticket Fighter Law Firm can review your speeding in a school or construction zone case today and outline your legal options.
Our speeding ticket lawyers have an impressive record of successfully dismissing speeding tickets, achieving acquittals, and reducing penalties. Don’t pay your speeding ticket without a fight! Call The Ticket Fighter now for immediate assistance at (407) 476-5120.
Florida Laws Governing Protected Zones
In Florida, school zones are designated areas around schools, playgrounds, and bus stops where reduced speed limits are enforced to protect children. School zone violations are dealt with harshly. Florida’s statutes state the speed limit in school zones is typically 20 miles per hour. However, it may not be less than 15 mph unless set by local regulations, and cannot exceed 20 mph in urbanized areas.
These limits apply 30 minutes before, during, and 30 minutes after students arrive at or leave a regularly scheduled school session or breakfast program. School zones must have uniform signs indicating the speed limit and hours of enforcement, often accompanied by flashing beacons. Violating the speed limit in a school zone is a moving violation, punishable with fines that are twice the amount of regular speeding tickets. For example, speeding 1-9 mph over the limit incurs a $50 fine, with no warnings issued.
Additionally, 3 points are added to your driver’s license, or 4 points if the speed exceeds 16 mph, and 6 points if the violation causes a crash. Passing a school bus with its stop arm extended is also prohibited, carrying significant fines and points. You may also need to serve community service.
Florida law enforces stringent regulations in construction zones to ensure the safety of workers and motorists. These zones, marked by signs, cones, or flagging personnel, are areas where construction, maintenance, or utility work occurs. Florida statutes state that speeding fines in construction zones are doubled when workers are present.
For instance, a $100 fine for speeding 10 mph over the limit in a regular zone becomes $200 in a construction zone. Points on a driver’s license may also be assessed, which can increase insurance premiums or result in license suspension for repeat offenders. Law enforcement uses radar, laser devices, and sometimes speed cameras to enforce these limits.
Enforcement and Signage
Both school zones and construction zones require clear signage to inform drivers of reduced speed limits. In school zones, the Department of Transportation mandates uniform traffic and pedestrian control devices, maintained by the state for state roads, counties for county roads, and municipalities for local roads.
Signs in school zones must be consistent in size and color, with enforcement hours posted or indicated by flashing beacons. Construction zones similarly require visible markers, and enforcement may involve increased patrols or the use of automated systems. Non-compliance in either zone results in enhanced penalties to deter unsafe driving
Specific statutes authorize higher fines for speeding offenses that occur during school drop-off or pickup hours, or when workers are present at the construction site. Fines from school zone and construction zone violations often go to the fine and forfeiture fund, which supports law libraries, public programs, and law enforcement agencies.
Consequences of Speeding in School or Construction Zones
School zone violations are considered a serious offense in Florida due to the increased risk to children. School zones usually have speed limits of 15 to 20 miles per hour, enforced 30 minutes before, during, and after school sessions.
Fines for speeding in these zones are doubled compared to standard speeding violations. For example, exceeding the speed limit by 1 to 9 mph triggers a minimum fine of $50, with no warnings issued. Higher speeds result in progressively steeper penalties, such as $1,000 for a second offense of 30 to 39 mph over the limit, which requires a mandatory court appearance.
Additionally, drivers face 3 to 4 points on their license, depending on the speed, with a maximum of 6 points possible if the violation results in a crash. Accumulating too many points can result in driver’s license suspension, increased insurance premiums, or mandatory driver’s education courses. Community service may be ordered, as well.
Construction Zone Speeding
Speeding in construction zones in Florida also carries severe consequences, particularly when workers are present. Florida Statutes mandate that fines are doubled in construction zones if workers or equipment are actively present and the zone is marked with signage indicating reduced speed limits. For instance, a standard $100 fine for speeding 10 mph over the limit becomes $200 in a construction zone.
Drivers may also receive three points on their license, which could contribute to potential suspension if the points accumulate. In some cases, mandatory court appearances or traffic school may be required. The rationale is to protect workers and motorists in areas with dynamic traffic patterns, heavy machinery, and reduced lane widths, where speeding significantly increases the risk of accidents.
You face more penalties beyond fines and points for severe or repeat offenses. In school zones, exceeding the speed limit by 30–39 mph for a second offense incurs a $1,000 fine and a mandatory court appearance, while speeding over 50 mph can lead to a $5,000 fine.
In construction zones, drivers may be required to attend traffic school, and serious violations could lead to probation or community service focused on road safety. Always hire a Ticket Fighter attorney to help you contest a speeding ticket in a school zone or a construction zone.
Don’t Let a Ticket Derail You
Whether it’s speeding, a red‑light camera, toll violation, or suspended license – your driving record matters. Our skilled attorneys defend Florida drivers like you every day, reducing points, avoiding fines, and keeping you on the road.
Common Enforcement Methods and Mistakes
Florida law enforcement officers employ a range of methods to enforce speed limits in school zones and construction areas. One standard method is the use of radar and laser speed detection devices, which enable officers to measure a vehicle’s speed from a distance accurately. These devices are frequently used in school zones, where speed limits are typically reduced to 15–20 mph during active hours, and in construction zones when workers are present.
Officers may position themselves in visible or concealed locations, such as behind signage or in unmarked vehicles, to monitor compliance. Another prevalent enforcement tool is speed cameras, which allow municipalities to install camera-equipped radar systems in school zones to capture vehicles exceeding the speed limit by 10 mph or more. These cameras issue automated citations, typically a $100 fine, mailed to the vehicle owner.
Additionally, increased police patrolling is common in school zones, with officers stationed near school crosswalks or construction barriers, often accompanied by flashing beacons or signage that indicate reduced speed limits and doubled fines when workers or students are present. In school zones, enforcement is stricter during specific hours (30 minutes before and after school), and officers may also watch for other violations, such as passing a stopped school bus or using a cellphone without a hands-free device, which carries additional penalties.
Common Police Enforcement Mistakes
While Florida law enforcement works to ensure safety in school zones and construction zones, mistakes can occur. Many speeding citations in these zones can be challenged and dismissed with the help of a speeding ticket lawyer.
Improper Calibration
One possible error is the improper calibration or misuse of speed detection devices. Radar or laser guns must be regularly calibrated and operated by trained personnel. Failure to provide proof of calibration or misuse of the device can result in the invalidation of your school zone violation ticket.
Issuing Tickets Outside Enforcement Zones
Another common mistake is issuing school zone violations citations outside designated enforcement hours or zones. For example, school zone speed limits are only enforceable during posted hours, typically when children are arriving or leaving school. Your speeding ticket lawyer can contest a ticket issued outside these times.
Similarly, in construction zones, doubled fines only apply when workers or equipment are actively present, and officers may erroneously issue enhanced penalties when no workers are on-site.
Inaccurate documentation on citations, such as incorrect times, locations, or vehicle details, is another error that can lead to dismissals, especially if the citation does not align with the boundaries of the school or construction zone as defined by signage.
Additionally, some law enforcement agencies may fail to ensure that signage is clear and compliant with Florida Statutes, which require uniform signs indicating speed limits and enforcement times. If signs are missing, obscured, or non-compliant, citations may be challenged. Finally, entrapment-like tactics, although not technically entrapment, can raise concerns if officers conceal themselves in areas with poor visibility or where speed limit changes are not marked, potentially leading to disputes over fairness.
Legal Implications for School Zone Violations
Mistakes by local law enforcement agencies can have significant implications for drivers cited for speeding in school or construction zones. Florida’s strict penalties, including doubled fines and points on the driver’s license, as well as potential license suspension, underscore the importance of fair enforcement.
Drivers can contest citations by challenging the accuracy of speed measurements, the timing or location of the violation, or the presence of proper signage. For instance, automated camera citations require a 30-day notice with photographic evidence. Errors in this process, such as delayed notifications or incorrect vehicle identification, can lead to dismissal.
However, contesting a school zone or construction zone speeding ticket successfully is difficult without legal representation. The Ticket Fighter Law Firm has an outstanding record of getting speeding tickets dismissed to avoid fines, driver’s license penalties, and community service.
How It Works
A simplified look.
Get a Free Consultation/Quote
Contact us by phone, text, or online message to get a quote to represent you on your traffic ticket. We work on a flat fee basis, no hidden costs.
We take it from there
You can hire us over the phone or by online payment through our secure client portal. This is also where you see all documents concerning your case. Once you hire there is nothing else you have to do, we take care of the entire process.
Wait for Results
Normally within 24 hours of your hearing we publish the results to the online portal. The portal sends an email whenever we add or change anything so you won’t miss any important messages we send.
Why You Need a Traffic Lawyer for These Violations
Receiving a speeding ticket in Florida, particularly in a school zone or construction zone, can have serious consequences that go beyond a fine. The state imposes stricter penalties in these areas due to the heightened risk to vulnerable populations, such as children and workers. Hiring a speeding ticket lawyer is critical to increase the odds of a successful case outcome.
Higher Penalties and Fines in School Zone or Construction Zone
School zone violations or speeding in construction zone in Florida carries significantly harsher penalties than standard speeding violations. Fines for speeding in a school zone are doubled, starting at $50 for going 1-9 mph over the limit, with no warnings issued.
For example, speeding 10 mph over the speed limit in a school zone could result in a fine up to $200. Similarly, in construction zones with workers present, fines are doubled, and a mandatory court appearance may be required for excessive speeds. Additionally, these violations add points to your license: 3 points for speeding by up to 15 mph over the limit, 4 points for speeding by 16 mph or more, and 6 points if speeding causes a crash in a school zone.
Accumulating too many points for speeding in a school zone criminal offense can result in license suspension, making it crucial to contest these tickets. Our experienced speeding ticket lawyer can challenge the ticket by examining factors such as improper signage, faulty speed measurement devices, or procedural errors. Our lawyers may be able to help you have your ticket case dismissed or have fines and penalties reduced.
Insurance and Driver’s License Consequences
A speeding in a school zone or construction zone criminal offense doesn’t just result in immediate fines; it can also have long-term consequences for your driving record and insurance premiums.
Points added to your license, 3 to 6 for school zone violations and similar penalties in construction zones, stay on your record for three years and can lead to increased insurance costs or even policy cancellation. For instance, Florida’s point system can result in a 30-day driver’s license suspension if you accumulate 12 points within 12 months. Paying the fine admits guilt, locking in these points. An experienced speeding ticket lawyer can negotiate to have the ticket dismissed or reduced to a non-moving violation, avoiding points altogether.
Don’t pay your school or construction zone speeding ticket without a fight! Call The Ticket Fighter for a free legal consultation at (407) 476-5120.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a lawyer for a speeding ticket in a school or construction zone get my traffic citation dismissed?
Yes, hiring a Ticket Fighter lawyer increases the chances of a successful outcome for your traffic citation, such as a dismissal or penalty reduction. Your speeding ticket lawyer may challenge a speeding ticket by examining technicalities and evidence. Common defenses include errors on the ticket given by the law enforcement officer, improper signage, or issues with speed measurement devices.
For instance, Florida law requires school zones to have posted signs indicating speed limits and hours of restriction, and construction zones must have signage indicating doubled fines when workers are present. If these conditions aren’t met, a lawyer can argue for dismissal. Additionally, if the officer didn’t witness the violation or can’t identify you as the driver, this can weaken the case.
Why are the fines higher for speeding in these special zones?
Speeding fines are higher in Florida construction and school zones to enhance safety in areas with increased risks. In school zones, the presence of children, who are less aware of traffic dangers, necessitates stricter penalties to deter speeding and protect pedestrians.
In construction zones, doubled fines apply to traffic citations when workers are present, as they are at a higher risk due to the presence of heavy machinery, shifting traffic patterns, and reduced lane widths. The higher fines are an attempt to prevent accidents, as speeding is a leading cause of the 722 annual construction zone deaths in the U.S.
Will speeding in a school zone result in points being added to my Florida driver’s license?
Yes, speeding in a school zone in Florida can result in points being added to your driver’s license. According to state law, speeding violations in a school zone may result in 3 points being added to your driving record, as speeding is generally classified as a moving violation. However, the exact points and penalties can vary based on the speed and circumstances:
Reckless driving or excessive speeding can result in additional points or penalties, especially in a school zone, where fines are doubled.
Speeding 1-15 mph over the limit: 3 points.
Speeding 16+ mph over the limit: 4 points.
Can a lawyer help me avoid a court appearance for a speeding ticket issued in a construction zone?
A Ticket Fighter attorney can potentially help you avoid a court appearance for a speeding ticket issued in a construction zone, depending on the specifics of your case and the severity of the violation.
If the ticket involves a non-mandatory court appearance, Ticket Fighter can often handle the matter without requiring your presence in court. They can file a “Conditional Plea of No Contest and Affidavit of Defense or Admission and Waiver of Appearance” on your behalf, as noted by the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit of Florida. This allows the case to be reviewed without a physical court appearance, potentially resulting in a withheld adjudication (no points on your license) or a reduced penalty.
However, if speeding in a school zone or construction zone is 30 MPH or more, avoiding court appearances is more difficult. Contact The Ticket Fighter today for a free case review to learn more.
Can a speeding in a school or construction zone lawyer prevent a license suspension?
An experienced traffic ticket lawyer at The Ticket Fighter can employ several strategies to minimize the impact of a speeding ticket in a school or construction zone, potentially preventing a license suspension.
First, they can review the citation for errors, such as inaccuracies in the ticket details, improper signage in the zone, or issues with speed measurement devices like radar or laser guns. For example, a lawyer might argue that the school zone’s reduced speed limit was not in effect during the cited time, or that the construction zone lacked proper signage indicating doubled fines. Second, your speeding ticket lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation or a lesser offense that carries fewer or no points, thus avoiding the accumulation of points that could lead to suspension.
Lastly, your speeding ticket lawyer can review your driving record to determine how close you are to the threshold for suspension and tailor a defense strategy accordingly. If your license is already at risk due to prior violations, they might pursue alternative sentencing, such as community service or a driver improvement course, to mitigate penalties. For drivers facing mandatory court appearances, legal representation is essential to avoid a subpar outcome, such as a driver’s license suspension.
Contact Us
Interested in our services? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly.
We can’t wait to hear from you!
touch ASAP.
Fight Your Ticket Now
