California’s approach to school zone safety has shifted significantly in 2026. CA Assembly Bill 382 (AB 382) took effect on January 1, 2026.

This amendment to the CA traffic code complements current law to lower speed limits around school zones and “senior” centers to provide pedestrian safety for school children and seniors.

This law recognizes that even a 5 mph reduction can be life-saving for children walking or biking to school.

It allows local municipal authorities to reduce the default speed limits in school zones when children are present from 25 mph to 20 mph.

“The bill would define “school zone” as an area of a highway within 500 feet of school grounds in any direction, unless otherwise posted, marked with appropriate signs giving notice of the area.”— AB-382 Pedestrian safety: School zones: Speed limits.

The 20 mph speed limit applies when all of the following exist:

“(1) A school speed limit sign with attached beacons states “speed limit 20 when flashing” and the beacons are flashing.

(2) A school speed limit sign states “children are present” and children are present.

(3) A school speed limit sign with specific hours, which shall be determined by the local jurisdiction.”

Vehicle code clarifies that children are present when one or more are on a sidewalk, highway or street shoulder, or playground within 500 feet of the zone, even when separated by a barrier or fence.

Also, in the areas surrounding “senior” centers:

“When passing a senior center or other facility primarily used by senior citizens, contiguous to a street other than a state highway and posted with a standard “SENIOR” warning sign.”

In Kern County, CA, local jurisdictions like Bakersfield are reviewing their school zones to implement these safer limits.

Whether you are driving near a neighborhood elementary school or a busy high school, beware of the new school zone speed limits. The presence of new signage is your cue to slow down.

Failing to obey the speed limit change can quickly result in a speeding ticket.

Even a five to ten mph ticket for driving over the speed limit could cost nearly $3,000 during the three years the record could remain on your driving record.

Although the fine is only $238, the resultant increase in insurance premiums for the average Bakersfield driver with full coverage would be $965.25 per year for up to 39 months, depending on the renewal date.

The goal of AB 382 is to create a more predictable and protective environment for students. While the 20 mph standard will become mandatory statewide in 2031, some municipalities, including Bakersfield, are already utilizing the interim authority to protect their children and seniors today.

Always keep a watchful eye for updated school zone speed limits signs to protect our vulnerable children and seniors during your daily commute.

Why You Need a Speeding Ticket Lawyer in Bakersfield

Defending a school zone citation in Kern County requires a deep understanding of local ordinances and the new AB 382 framework.

The driver might be eligible for the DMV’s Traffic Violator School program to keep the paid fine confidential from their insurance provider. However, it is not guaranteed that you’re eligible, regardless of the court notice wording. Ask a Kern County traffic attorney.

In Bakersfield, CA, the transition to lower limits can sometimes lead to confusion regarding where a zone starts and ends, what signage constitutes a warning, and whether it can be presumed that children were present.

A speeding ticket lawyer will investigate if the proper signage was in place and clearly visible.

And, if all three elements of the new school zone speed limits were not adhered to by the municipality, the driver might have a valid case for dismissal.

Although there are no guarantees, we will vigorously protect your rights, driving record, and insurance premiums.

Ask Bigger & Harman, the Bakersfield Speeding Ticket Lawyers

If you are facing a speeding in a school zone violation due to the new school zone speed limits or any speeding ticket in Bakersfield, CA, call a speeding ticket lawyer at Bigger & Harman, APC at (661) 367-8232—se habla Español.

The Bakersfield Courthouse handles thousands of traffic cases, and having professional representation can make a substantial difference in the outcome.

We focus on protecting your driving record so that one mistake in a school zone doesn't haunt your finances for years to come.

Alternatively, drivers with speeding tickets can use our secure website contact form to provide us a copy of their citation and a summary of the stop, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section

Q: Can a speeding ticket lawyer help if I didn't see the new 20 mph sign?

A: Yes, it’s quite likely. For a school zone speed limit to be enforceable under AB 382, the signage must be flashing and positioned according to state standards. A Bakersfield speeding ticket lawyer can investigate whether the driver has a valid defense for dismissal.

Q: Will a ticket for speeding in a school zone result in a license suspension?

A: No. If it is your first ticket, it is likely that you are eligible for Traffic Violator School. Otherwise, without legal representation, you’ll pay a fine of around $238, and the DMV will assess one NOTS point that will raise your auto insurance premium by nearly 30% if they take your good driver’s discount. California driver’s license suspension usually comes from a pattern of risky driving behavior.

Q: Is it worth hiring a speeding ticket lawyer for a 20 mph zone violation?

A: Yes. Because school zone fines are often subject to enhanced penalties and can lead to a significant spike in insurance premiums (nearly $1,000 annually), the long-term cost of a conviction is high. A speeding ticket lawyer works to have the charges reduced or dismissed, which can save you thousands of dollars in insurance costs over the next several years.

References:

AB-382 Pedestrian safety: School zones: Speed limits.

The CA Driver Handbook Englishy Español.