California Proposes Stricter Speed Limits for School Zones [Los Angeles, CA]

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 31, 2024) — In a move to enhance the safety of school zones across California, a new bill introduced in the state Legislature aims to lower speed limits to “20 mph or less” in these areas. 

 

This proposed California school zone speed limit, known as AB 2583 or the Safer School Zones Act, marks a significant shift from the current 25 mph limit, focusing on protecting students, staff, and families around schools throughout the day.

 

Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) spearheaded the initiative, drawing inspiration from a tragic incident where 8-year-old Jacob Villanueva was fatally struck in a crosswalk en route to Castlemont Elementary School. The proposed change emphasizes time-based speed limits rather than the existing rule, which applies only “when children are present,” to mitigate confusion and enhance enforcement.

 

The Safer School Zones Act also seeks to improve planning for safety within a half-mile radius of schools, aiming to create a safer environment for school communities. If passed, the new speed limits would be enforced during critical school hours, specifically from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with local authorities having the flexibility to adjust hours as needed.

 

Set to take effect on January 1, 2025, this bill underscores the urgent need for clearer, more consistent measures to prevent accidents in school zones. It represents a proactive approach to safeguarding our communities’ youngest members and the importance of legislative action in promoting public safety.

 

As discussions around AB 2583 continue, the importance of legal expertise in navigating personal injury cases, particularly those involving minors and school zones, cannot be overstated.