Street Racing Charges and Their Possible Penalties
California prohibits street racing, also known as drag racing, on all public highways. There are additional crimes you can commit while racing in the street, such as reckless driving. While many people do not see a significant difference between speeding and drag racing, a conviction for racing is much more severe. In California, it can even result in jail time.
Street Racing Is Banned on Public Roads in California
In its statutes, California refers to illegal street racing as a “speed contest.” To convict you for the crime of street racing, a prosecutor must prove that you did two things:
- First, that you were driving a motor vehicle on a highway.
- Second, that while you were driving that motor vehicle, you willfully engaged in a speed contest.
It should be noted that California defines a speed contest as any sort of racing between cars. A speed contest can also occur when a single vehicle races against a clock or set time.
Even though the law refers specifically to a “highway,” almost all public streets in California fit this definition. This means it is a crime to race on most roads. However, a race conducted entirely on private property and tracks would not be illegal.
Additionally, you can end up in trouble for street racing a variety of vehicles. The types of motor vehicles that can be involved in street racing charges include:
- Cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs
- Commercial vehicles
- Buses
- Motorcycles
- Tractor-trailers
- Recreational vehicles
Given the broad scope of California’s street racing laws, most instances of drag racing on a public street can be charged under this prohibition.
What Is the Difference Between Drag Racing and Reckless Driving?
In California, reckless driving involves “wanton disregard” for the safety of people or property while operating a vehicle. How is this different from street racing?
Acting with wanton disregard means intentionally ignoring a substantial risk of harm. By definition, there is not much space between drag racing and reckless driving. By itself, speeding cannot usually be the basis for a reckless driving charge in California.
The differences will generally depend on what is happening around you. If you street race during rush hour traffic or while it is storming, you may have crossed to reckless driving. However, if you drag race in an isolated location with few cars or property around, you may only face speed contest charges.
The Possible Penalties for Street Racing
A first-time speed contest conviction carries a maximum penalty of up to 90 days in county jail and a $1,000 fine. If you have prior drag racing convictions, the penalties can include six months in prison and a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension.
Reckless driving punishments are more severe. If you end up injuring another person, even if it is minor, you can spend up to a year in county jail. However, causing a severe injury can make reckless driving a felony. Then a conviction carries a maximum penalty of three years in jail and a $10,000 fine.
Any driving charge can be enhanced if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The penalties quickly escalate if you have prior DUI convictions.
If you have been arrested for street racing in Anaheim, California, a skilled criminal defense attorney can help defend you against charges. Schedule a no-cost case evaluation with the Chambers Law Firm today by calling 714-760-4088 or emailing dchambers@clfca.com.
