Anyone involved in a speed contest – or race against other drivers, clocks, or timing devices – can face legal penalties in the state of California. Drivers can be charged under Vehicle Code Section 23109(a): Engaging in a Speed Contest. Individuals who help set up the contest can be charged under California Vehicle Code Section 23109(d): Placing Barricade on Highway Incident to a Speed Contest.
Make sure you understand the legal applications of VC 23109(d) charges with the Simmrin Law Group. This article and the legal professionals at the Simmrin Law Group can help you focus on:
- The Definition of Placing a Barricade for a Speed Contest
- The Penalties for a VC 23109(d) Conviction
- Some Common Legal Defenses for VC 23109(d) Violations
Defining Vehicle Code Section 23109(d)
According to VC 21309(d), individuals in the state of California can face criminal charges if they:
- Place or Assist in Placing Barricades or Obstructions on a Highway
- In Order to Facilitate or Aid in a Motor Speed Contest
Let’s go over some of the terms used in this definition to clarify the actions that can lead to a VC 23109(d) conviction.
Speed Contests: The Definition
Motorists engage in speed contests anytime they operate a motor vehicle on a public road by racing other drivers. Drivers can also take part in a speed contest if they try to race a clock or other timing device in California.
Highways: The Definition
Note that, for the purposes of VC 23109(d), highways do not just refer to freeways in California. All public streets and roads are considered “highways” under this charge. Private roads are not covered by VC 23109(d).
Considering Charges Similar to VC 23109(d)
California uses multiple charges to prosecute individuals engaged in speed contests. Based on an individual’s level of participation, they could be charged under:
- Vehicle Code Section 23109(a): Engaging in a Speed Contest
- Vehicle Code Section 23109(b): Aiding and Abetting a Motor Vehicle Speed Contest
- Vehicle Code Section 23109(c): Exhibition of Speed
However, participating in a speed contest is not the only dangerous activity that can lead to criminal charges in California. Drivers could also face criminal charges for:
- California Vehicle Code Section 23103: Reckless Driving
- California Vehicle Code Section 23152(a): Driving Under The Influence Of Alcohol
- California Vehicle Code Section 2800.1: Evading a Peace Officer
These are only examples of the charges drivers can face in California for their actions behind the wheel. You can focus on criminal charges associated with driving by reaching out to a traffic violations lawyer in Los Angeles right away.
Reviewing the Penalties for a VC 23109(d) Violation
Individuals in California who are convicted of placing a barricade on a highway incident to a speed contest may end up facing the following repercussions:
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Jail Time: Up to 90 Days
Focusing on Legal Defenses for VC 23109(d) Accusations
Dealing with VC 23109(d) charges alone can be incredibly difficult. Make sure you are ready to defend yourself in California’s court system by reaching out to a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer right now. You can build your defense by working with a legal professional, who may be able to demonstrate that:
You Didn’t Place Barricades to Facilitate a Speed Contest
Not all barricades placed on highways around California are for speed contests. You could have legitimate reasons for placing a barricade. In this situation, you should not face a conviction under VC 23109(d). Let your criminal defense lawyer know if you were placing a barrier as part of your job or for an authorized reason.
You Were Only Watching a Speed Contest
Anyone involved in a speed contest can face criminal charges in California. However, if you were only an observer, you should not be charged under VC 23109(d). A lawyer could also argue that you should not face this charge if you were standing along the road, as your body may not count as a barricade. Note that any participation in a speed contest can lead to criminal charges, even if that participation does not involve placing a barricade.
Get the Legal Support You Need to Handle VC 23109(d) Charges
California Vehicle Code Section 23109(d): Placing Barricade on Highway Incident to a Speed Contest charges can lead to fines and jail time. Take steps to build a defense against these accusations now by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. You can reach out to us easily to get a FREE case evaluation.
Get in touch with our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers by calling (310) 896-2723 or filling out our online contact form.