Street racing in LA comes with serious risks and legal consequences, including arrest, license suspension, and even jail time. In Los Angeles, street racing is more than just dangerous—it is illegal under California law, and offenders can face criminal and civil penalties.
The consequences don’t just affect the driver. Passengers, bystanders, and other drivers are also put at risk. If you are facing drag racing charges, our Los Angeles street racing lawyer will explain what you are up against and how we can protect your future.
What Is Street Racing?
Street racing, sometimes called “drag racing” or “speed contests,” happens when two or more cars race each other on public roads. People organize these races using social media platforms (e.g., Instagram and TikTok) and set them up to take place late at night in areas with wide open streets and low traffic.
California Vehicle Code § 23109 makes it illegal to participate in or organize a street race. The law also applies to people who help plan races or attend as spectators.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Why Street Racing in Los Angeles Is Dangerous and Deadly
Street racing creates unsafe conditions for everyone on the road and those on the sidelines. Here’s why the activity is so risky:
- High speeds: Drivers often go well above the speed limit, making it harder to stop or react.
- No safety rules: Unlike professional races, there are no safety crews, blocked-off roads, or medical help available.
- Crowds: Races sometimes attract spectators who stand near the road and put themselves at risk of getting hit.
- Poor visibility: Many races happen at night or in low-light areas. This makes it harder for drivers to see the road, obstacles, or other vehicles. It also raises the chance of hitting pedestrians, missing turns, or crashing into parked cars.
- Unpredictable traffic: Public roads may have other drivers, pedestrians, or animals that racers can’t anticipate.
Even if no one is hurt, the act of racing alone is enough to lead to charges under California law. Judges take these cases seriously because of how dangerous they are to the public.
Penalties for Street Racing in California
California takes street racing seriously. Some of the main penalties under California Vehicle Code § 23109 include the following:
First Offense
- Up to 90 days in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- License suspension for 90 days to six months
- Possible vehicle impound for 30 days
A conviction for street racing in California can also add points to your driving record. These points can lead to higher insurance rates and may put your license at risk if you get too many in a short period.
If Someone Gets Hurt
If a street race causes an injury or death in the Los Angeles area, the driver may face felony charges, which carry:
- Years in prison
- Much higher fines
- Long-term or permanent license suspension
Spectators and Organizers
Even watching a street race or helping to set one up can lead to:
- Fines
- Misdemeanor charges
- Community service
- A criminal record
Additional Charges in These Cases
Street racing charges often come with other criminal charges, especially if something goes wrong. These may include:
- Reckless driving (California Vehicle Code § 23103)
- Driving under the influence (DUI) (California Vehicle Code § 23152)
- Vehicular manslaughter (Penal Code § 192(c)) if someone dies during a race
- Evading police (California Vehicle Code § 2800.2) if the driver flees from law enforcement
These charges can stack and increase penalties significantly.
We Will Fight the Charges in Your Los Angeles Drag Racing Case
If you’ve been accused of street racing in Los Angeles, our criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles will:
- Review the evidence (e.g., videos, social media, police reports, eyewitness accounts).
- Challenge the charges (Was it really a race? Were you just speeding?).
- Fight to reduce the penalties you face or get charges dropped.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a fair outcome. We can work to get the prosecution to reduce or dismiss charges.
- Take your case to trial if necessary.
Many street racing cases rely on video footage, eyewitness accounts, GPS data, or officer testimony. We will review these materials and build a strong defense. Having the right legal help can make a big difference in the outcome.
If you are facing charges or think you could be, you can seek legal help now.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
What Prosecutors Must Prove to Show You Meant to Race
To convict someone of street racing under state law, the prosecutor must prove specific elements. If even one is missing, the case may not hold up in court. These elements include:
- Willful participation: You must have willfully joined in a race or exhibition of speed.
- Two or more vehicles: Most street racing charges involve at least two cars.
- On a public road: The race must take place on a street, highway, or other public road, not on a closed track.
- Agreement to race: There must be proof that the drivers were racing each other on purpose, not just one person speeding alone.
Knowing what the law requires helps us fight weak charges. For example, if there’s no proof you meant to race or no second driver was involved, it might not count as street racing under the law.
How Social Media Can Be Used Against You in Street Racing Cases
Street racing cases prove that social media posts can be used against you, even if you think they’re private. Social media activity can be tracked, saved, and used as evidence, and prosecutors can use it to build their case against you.
In Los Angeles, it’s common for people to organize and share street races on:
- Instagram Stories or TikTok videos
- Group chats or text threads
- Live streams or YouTube uploads
The authorities in your case may use this content to show:
- You attended or helped organize the race.
- You promoted the event.
- You recorded or took part in a racing activity.
Even if you weren’t behind the wheel, prosecutors might charge you based on this digital footprint. If this happens, we know what to do. We will know how to show when social media posts don’t tell the full story.
How We Can Defend You Against Racing Charges
Just because you’re charged with street racing doesn’t mean you are guilty. There are several ways to challenge these charges, depending on the facts of your case.
Common defenses in these cases include:
- You weren‘t racing: You may have been speeding, but that doesn’t mean you were involved in a race or speed contest. The law requires proof of intent to race another driver.
- No second vehicle: Street racing usually involves two or more vehicles. If you were alone, it may not meet the legal definition of racing.
- Mistaken identity: Police sometimes misidentify the driver, especially in chaotic scenes or when relying on poor video footage.
- You were just present, not participating: Being near a race or watching one is not the same as racing. The prosecution must prove you were actively taking part in the race.
- Illegal stop or search: If the police violated your rights during the traffic stop or arrest, we may be able to get evidence thrown out.
Our defense team will look at every detail—from how you were stopped to what evidence they have—to build your case for reduced or dismissed charges.
Have You Been Charged With Street Racing in LA? We Can Help
If you have been charged with street racing in LA, don’t face the legal system alone. The risks and legal consequences are too serious to ignore. Our skilled drag racing lawyers in Los Angeles will investigate your case, explain your options, and protect your rights.
At Simmrin Law Group, we have served thousands of clients over the past 20+ years. Our attorneys bring decades of experience and have handled more than 100 jury trials, including serious felony and capital cases.
We do all the work for your defense, from collecting police reports and video footage to reviewing texts and witness statements. We will go to trial and fight for your best outcome.
Contact us today for a free consultation so we can start building your defense.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form