School and Residential Zone
- 1/19Ifyou are driving through a school zone during posted hours
School zones have reduced speed limits to protect children. Always obey posted signs and be alert for crossing guards.
When school zone lights are flashing
Flashing lights indicate that children may be present, and speed reduction is mandatory at that time.
If you see a school bus with flashing red lights
Hawaii law requires all traffic to stop for a school bus loading or unloading unless on a divided highway.
When entering a residential neighborhood
Residential areas often have children, pedestrians, and narrow roads. Safe speed is typically 25 MPH or less.
If children are near the road or crossing
Children can be unpredictable, so extra caution is required near playgrounds, schools, and parks.
When approaching a crosswalk in a school zone
Always yield to pedestrians in school zones and never pass a stopped car at a crosswalk.
If a school crossing guard signals you to stop
School crossing guards have legal authority to manage traffic around schools for child safety.
When you see a reduced speed limit sign in a neighborhood
Hawaii neighborhoods may have special limits as low as 15 MPH depending on the area.
If you are reversing in a residential area
Children may dart behind vehicles. Always check mirrors and surroundings before backing up.
When school is starting or ending
Morning and afternoon hours require high attention due to school buses and student activity.
Ifyou are caught speeding in a school zone
Hawaii imposes higher fines for violations in school zones to promote safety. Tickets may impact insurance.
When driving through neighborhoods with parked cars
Parked cars can obstruct visibility. Drive slowly and be cautious of children playing near the street.
If a child is playing near the road
In residential areas, always assume children may enter the road unexpectedly. Drive defensively.
When driving near a playground or daycare center
These areas have higher foot traffic. Reduced speed ensures time to react safely.
If a vehicle stops in front of you in a school zone
Passing in school zones is dangerous and often prohibited unless directed by signs or personnel.
When crossing a speed bump in a residential zone
Speed bumps signal high pedestrian presence. Hitting them fast is unsafe and can damage your vehicle.
When a school bus is parked with yellow flashing lights
Yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop. Passing at this time can result in fines.
If a child is crossing mid-block without a crosswalk
Even outside marked crossings, drivers must yield to pedestrians, especially minors.
When driving at dusk in a residential area
Reduced visibility at dusk makes it harder to see children or obstacles. Lights help you be seen as well.