In this article, we’ll expand on what the signs are to identify a school zone, the speed limits you must obey, the possible tickets you can get and how much they can cost you, and how these tickets can affect your car insurance rates and some advice on how to avoid unnecessary school zone fines on your driving record. Let’s begin!
What Exactly Is a School Zone in Ontario?
A school zone is usually a designated area that starts at the front door of the school, encompasses many blocks that surround the campus and has a high concentration of school-generated traffic.
The easiest way to recognize a school zone is by the five-sided, fluorescent yellow-green sign. While these warn of a zone, the reduced speed limit itself is only legally in force if accompanied by a white regulatory ‘Maximum Speed’ sign or a ‘When Flashing’ beacon.
Once you see this sign on the road, you immediately must slow down and adjust your speed between 30 and 40 km/hr max. unless the sign indicates another speed limit.
What School Zone Signs Look Like
These signs indicate that you are entering a school zone.
What Is the Speed Limit in a School Zone in Ontario?
As mentioned before, the speed limit in a school area is between 30 and 40 Km/hr.
Reduced limits typically apply between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on school days (September to June). However, many municipalities, including Mississauga, have expanded these hours to 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and some zones around parks or community centers are enforced 24/7.
What Are the Main Rules When Driving in a School Zone?
How Much Are Fines for Speeding in a School Zone?
Speeding tickets in a school area may vary depending on how fast you were speeding. These amounts are how much fines for speeding can cost you:
| Driving Speed | Ticket Cost + Demerit Points |
|---|---|
| over 10 Km/hr | $95 |
| over 20 Km/hr | $180 + 3 demerit points |
| over 30 Km/hr | $450 + 4 demerit points |
| over 40 Km/hr | $2,000 + immediate 30-day licence suspension, + 14-day vehicle impoundment |
In a school zone where the limit is under 80 km/h, speeding 40 km/h or more over the limit is classified as stunt driving. Instead of a simple fine, you face an immediate 30-day licence suspension, a 14-day vehicle impoundment, and a minimum court fine of $2,000
If you are fined several times for speeding, you can also be fined for careless driving.
How Do School Zone Tickets Affect My Car Insurance?
The mere fact that you accumulate demerit points will affect the cost of your auto insurance. For G1 and G2 drivers, any conviction carrying four or more demerit points (such as speeding 30 km/h+ over or following too closely) triggers an automatic 30-day licence suspension. This suspension remains on your record for six years and can more than double your insurance rates.
Key Advice from MyChoice
- If you just moved into a new house or you’re a young driver, start getting to know the school zones in your neighbourhood. Check nearby intersections and the locations of the school playground and parking lot. Getting to know your neighbourhood better can help you prevent collisions.
- Don’t lose your “clean record” insurance price. As mentioned, a single police issued speeding ticket can increase your car insurance by 16.5% in Ontario.
- G2 drivers receive a 10% discount for one year after graduating to a full G licence. Avoid tickets during your G2 phase to ensure you qualify for this reduction.