Traffic laws limit the ways that people behave themselves in traffic to help keep everyone safe. Drivers generally need to comply with the speed limit and avoid engaging in reckless conduct that could endanger others.
Street racing typically violates a number of different traffic statutes. Those racing may flagrantly violate speed limits. They might ignore stop signs and red lights. They may cut each other off without using turn signals and engage in clearly reckless behavior.
Historically, police officers have been able to arrest or cite those engaged in street racing for various traffic infractions. However, an uptick in street racing activity in 2020 and 2021 inspired a change to the law. Police officers can now arrest those engaged in street racing because street racing itself is explicitly illegal.
Each racing offense increases the penalties
Street racing charges may either be misdemeanor or felony offenses depending on the prior record of the driver accused. Any allegations of street racing can also carry up to a year in state custody. Other penalties increase depending on the driver’s record.
Florida enacted a law specifically prohibiting street racing in 2022, which means some drivers are not familiar with the statute. A first street racing offense is a first-degree misdemeanor. A first offense could result in between $500 and $2,000 in fines, as well as a year-long driver’s license revocation.
A second offense within a year of the first can lead to third-degree felony charges. The penalties possible increase to between $2,500 and $4,000 in fines and a two-year license revocation. A third offense within five years of the second charge can lead to second-degree felony charges. The driver may need to pay between $3,500 and $7,500 in fines. They may lose their license for up to four years.
Street racing allegations can trigger major consequences for motorists. Even those watching a race or riding as passengers in racing vehicles could be at risk of criminal consequences. Fighting back against allegations of street racing and other traffic offenses can help people preserve their driving privileges and avoid criminal penalties. Learning more about traffic statutes can help people plan a response to pending criminal allegations related to street racing and other questionable choices in traffic.