Street racing is a dangerous type of driving that puts not only those involved at risk, but also innocent bystanders and occupants of other vehicles. Despite the thrill it brings, it’s illegal on streets or highways in Georgia.
Racing Laws in Georgia
There’s good news for those who do enjoy street racing in Georgia. The Atlanta Dragway offers an event called “Year One Fast Friday,” which allows legal street racing. Only licensed drivers qualify. Their website provides the 2014 schedule. Although this facility is designed for street racing, it’s not the case for the streets, roads and highways.
According to Georgia statute §40-6-186, there are two terms used to describe this action. One is “drag racing,” which refers to two or more vehicles driven at accelerated speeds beside each other, with the intention of outdistancing the other. A deviation of this is using a selected course in which the goal is to reach a specific time limit or distance.
The other term, “racing,” refers to one or more vehicles endeavoring to pass another vehicle or preventing someone else from passing. It usually stems from an attempt to arrive at a destination first. Alternately, it may be to test the endurance of one’s vehicle while traveling a long distance.
Whatever the goal or purpose, these actions are illegal. Those convicted face misdemeanor charges. Of course, that may not be the case if this type of violation causes injury or death to someone. Then the consequences are much more serious.
Street racing in Georgia is just one example in which speeding is a factor and could result in a crash. Accidents resulting from speeding could include intoxicated drivers, inattention to posted speed limits, or many other types of careless or reckless behaviors.
Atlanta drivers have the right to safe roadways, and if street racing in Georgia harmed you or a family member, driving or as a pedestrian, seek recourse with Jason R. Schultz, car accident lawyer, at 404-474-0804.