What is the speed limit for a school zone where children are present?

The correct answer is 25 mph, which is the speed limit typically enforced in school zones when children are present. This speed limit is established to enhance the safety of children who may be crossing the street or near the road as they arrive at or depart from school.

Lowering the speed limit to 25 mph in school zones gives drivers a better chance to react quickly to unexpected situations, such as a child running into the street. In many places, including Montana, there's an emphasized focus on reducing speed limits around schools to prevent accidents and ensure a safer environment for children.

In contrast, the other speed limits listed—15 mph, 35 mph, and 45 mph—are generally not the standard for school zones. A speed limit of 15 mph may apply in very specific areas or under particularly designated conditions, but it is not the default for most school zones. Limits like 35 mph and 45 mph are typically associated with higher-traffic areas or roads that are not adjacent to schools, making them inappropriate for school zone regulations. Hence, the 25 mph speed limit is established as a common safety measure.