Speeding in a School Zone, State of Washington

[mrussell99]

I got a speeding ticket about a month and half ago in Seattle, Washington. I haven't had any tickets in over 7 years. I went to court and applied for the deferral option which means I'm on probation for a year before they drop that ticket from my record.

About a week ago, I got pulled over for speeding in a school zone (36mph in a 20mph zone). First, I don't believe I was going that fast because I have been extra cautious ever since I got that first ticket. Second, I did not see the School Zone sign from where he pulled me over. Does a school zone speed limit take effect at the location of the sign or where? I'm wondering if there's any way to fight this so I don't get two violations on my record.

I appreciate any advice.

[blewis]

There should be "School Zone" sign at the beginning of the zone (300 ft from the crosswalk or edge of the school property), and an "End School Zone" at the other end -- according to MUTCD 7B-11 (see page 15)

The School Speed Limit assembly or School Speed Limit sign shall be placed at or as near as practical to the point where the reduced speed zone begins.

Additionally, WAC 468-95-330 modifies the MUTCD but only to authorize the school zone to be 300 feet, rather than 200 feet as called out in the MUTCD. If you look at the picture on page 14 of the MUTCD manual, you'll see a picture showing how the signs should be placed.

RCW 47.36.020 requires compliance with the MUTCD "so far as possible". So if the signs are not properly placed, there needs to be a really good reason.

If you think the signs are NOT properly placed, you will need to take pictures and measurements of the location.

Good luck,
Barry