The Legal Implication of Street Racing
Nearly 12,151 people were killed in 2022 due to speeding, making this one of the leading causes of most accidents in the U.S. There is never really a good excuse to speeding, but there are certain reasons as to why some people choose to do so. One of those reasons is street racing. For many years this activity has been a thrilling seeking activity among many in the motorsport world. However, it comes with many legal implications if practiced. Let’s dig deeper into what exactly is street racing and how you can run into certain legal consequences if engaging in this activity.
Understanding Street Racing
What exactly is street racing? It is usually an illegal form of auto racing. There is a major distinction between this activity and legal motor sporting events like NASCAR and AF1 racing. One takes place in an enclosed arena on a track with other professional racing drivers, while the other takes place on public roads with drivers and other bystanders.
In certain communities, street racing is glorified as a popular activity and usually bestow high importance around motor vehicles. In addition, social media has increasingly played a huge role in highlighting street racing and its appealing nature.
Penalties of Street Racing
In the U.S., the laws surrounding street racing vary from state to state. However, there are common legal terms that you should be aware of. This can include terms like the following:
- Reckless Driving: Driving a vehicle in a manner that is disregarding the safety of others.
- Endangerment: In the context of driving, this means driving a vehicle that may increase risk of harming or injuring others.
- Illegal Street Racing: Racing motor vehicle on a public road with out the necessary permits or safety measures in place.
When it comes to street racing there are a couple ramifications that are placed if partaking in this illegal activity. According to an Arizona traffic ticket lawyer, this can include fines, a suspension of license, and even jail time.
Societal Impact
It is important to recognize the impact street racing has on society and how it can pose certain safety risks to the public. With the nature that street racing has it can increase the chances of more accidents and injuries to bystanders.
Not only can this impact those around you but this can also affect insurance rates and coverage that are provided. Usually after receiving a speeding ticket, your insurance could go up by about 25% of full coverage insurances.
Alternatives to Street Racing
There are many different alternatives to street racing if you still want to enjoy something similar to this thrill seeking activity. These alternatives are legal racing events you can attend and explore such as drag strips and motorsport competitions. These enable you to still enjoy the excitement of speed racing but in an environment that still has safety precautions in place. In addition to this, it is also our responsibility as everyday drivers to find programs and events that we can get involved in that aim at promoting safe driving and offering those alternatives to street racing.
Conclusion
The legal implications of street racing can become serious and sometimes even risk the safety of those around us. That’s why it is so important to understand what exactly street racing is, the consequences that come with it, and how it can impact society. By adhering to traffic laws and continuing to promote safe driving habits we can help make driving on the roads that much safer.
