(a) For the purpose of this section, "school" means any of the following entities:
(1) A public or private primary or secondary school.
(2) A primary or secondary school operated by a religious institution.
(3) A public, private or religious nursery school.
On a school day when school children are present and so close thereto that a potential hazard exists because of the close proximity of the motorized traffic, no person shall drive a motor vehicle at a speed in excess of 20 miles per hour while passing a school zone or while traveling upon any public thoroughfare where children pass going to and from school. For the purposes of this section a school day shall begin at 7:00 a.m. and shall conclude at 4:00 p.m.
This section shall not be applicable unless appropriate signs are posted, giving due warning that a school zone is being approached and shall indicate the school zone and the maximum speed limit in effect during school days when school children are present. Signs shall be in a form similar to signs posted for similar purposes pursuant to the Illinois Vehicle Code. School zones created prior to the effective date of this section and in compliance with the Illinois Vehicle Code shall be considered school zones for purposes of this section.
(b) Any person who violates subsection (a) of this section shall be subject to a fine of not less than $500.00 nor more than $1,000.00. A person violating this section shall also be subject to the community service requirements imposed by Section 1-4-120 of the Code. A person whose violation of this section results in a fatality may be subject to the imposition of felony charges by the state's attorney.
(Added Coun. J. 7-25-01, p. 65077, § 1; Amend Coun. J. 4-26-06, p. 75398, § 1)