What is the maximum speed limit for passenger vehicles in school zones?

In Virginia, the maximum speed limit for passenger vehicles in school zones is typically set at 25 mph. This speed limit is enforced in designated school zones to protect the safety of children and pedestrians. School zones are often marked with signs indicating the reduced speed limit during specific times when students are arriving or leaving school.

The rationale behind this speed limit is to give drivers sufficient time to react to unexpected situations, such as children crossing the street or emerging from vehicles. Lowering the speed limit helps ensure that drivers can stop quickly if necessary, thereby reducing the risk of accidents during critical times when children are present.

While some school zones may have different limits, 25 mph is a common standard in many areas to balance safety with traffic flow.