When traveling Code 3 through a school zone, is it permissible to disregard the speed limit?

• A. True
• B. Only with police present
• C. Depends on traffic
• D. False

Answer: (D)

Driving Code 3 means using lights and siren to move promptly, but it does not remove the obligation to drive safely and obey posted rules that exist for public safety. In a school zone, the speed limit is specifically set to protect children and other pedestrians who may be present near crosswalks, buses, and during arrival or dismissal times. Because children can react unpredictably and a quick stop is harder with pedestrians nearby, you must slow to the posted limit (or a safe speed dictated by conditions) and proceed with heightened caution. The siren and lights should warn others and help you move through traffic, but they do not waive the need to drive safely and respect the zone’s speed limit. If conditions require it, you may need to reduce speed further and only resume higher speed once you’re clear of the zone and it’s safe to do so.