Can “Street Racing” Result in Felony Charges in Illinois?

 Posted on November 15, 2019 in Traffic Violation

Roadways can generally be a dangerous place, but they become more unsafe when people decide to participate in “street racing.” This act can be defined as two or more cars racing down portions of a public road at speeds that surpass the legal limit. It is common for drivers to participate in street racing as a sport off of public roads. However, those drivers who take the competition to public streets -- where other drivers are not expecting it -- can face severe traffic violations if caught.

What Is Considered Street Racing?

The state of Illinois has a law against drivers who race their vehicles down public roadways. The law states that drivers on Illinois streets and highways are not permitted to:

• Allow their vehicle to be used in a street race

• Operate two or more vehicles that quickly accelerate in order to outdistance each other

• Use a public road to test and compare the acceleration of two or more vehicles

• Use one or more vehicles to not allow a car to overtake another

• Use a public road to test the stamina of a vehicle’s speed

What Are the Consequences of Street Racing?

Drivers can injure themselves or others during a street race. If violators collide with an innocent vehicle, the victim can suffer many types of damages:

• Personal injury

• Damage to vehicle

• Pain and suffering

• Lost wages

• Wrongful death

The driver who was involved in the street race will be considered at fault and required to pay compensation to the victim or the victim’s family. On top of that, a driver can be affected by street racing because of the charges that come after the accident. A driver’s record will be tainted, and his or her reputation within the community may also suffer. This is why street racing should be kept to competitive arenas and away from unsuspecting bystanders.

Illinois Penalties for Street Racing

The actions described above can be considered reckless driving, because the street racers are putting the lives of other drivers in danger. Therefore, an offender may be charged with reckless driving and face a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in prison and fines of up to $2,500, plus court fees.

Violators of the Illinois street racing law will face charges whether or not the action is considered “reckless driving.” A first offense will be considered a Class A misdemeanor, and drivers will be fined at least $250. Subsequent violations will be considered a Class 4 felony punishable with a fine of at least $500.

Additionally, a driver will have his or her license revoked for a certain amount of time depending on the severity of the crime and the number of previous violations. Aggravated street racing may be charged if a car accident occurs which results in a victim being injured or killed. This is a Class 4 felony punishable by a prison term of 1 to 12 years.

Contact a Joliet, IL Traffic Violations Attorney

Street racing may be a source of entertainment for some drivers and a result of road rage for others. Whatever the reason, the results of speeding and reckless driving can have serious consequences. The experienced lawyers from the Law Office of Tedone & Morton, P.C. can help you if you are facing any type of traffic violation charge. We will review the details of your case and build a strong defense on your behalf. To schedule your free consultation with a diligent Will County criminal defense lawyer, call our office today at 815-666-1285.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-506

https://illinoisrecklessdriving.com/law-penalties/