Street Racing in GA Has Consequences

The COVID-19 pandemic might have meant there were fewer drivers on the road, but that does not mean the roads were safer. In fact, there were more traffic-related deaths in 2020 than in recent years, as those who were driving seemed to be less respectful of traffic rules and safety. Specifically, Georgia saw an increase in unlawful street racing, which increased during the pandemic.

The legislature succeeded in passing House Bill 534, and Governor Brian Kemp recently signed the bill into law. This law increases the possible penalties for anyone involved in street racing, making such charges more serious than ever before. There is also a new criminal charge of “reckless stunt driving” that can apply in various situations.

These changes aim to curb street racing and the resulting harm caused to others by such reckless drivers. If you suffered completely preventable injuries due to street racing or stunt driving, those involved should be held fully responsible for all of your injuries and losses. You should seek help from a Cumming personal injury attorney who can protect your rights, so contact our legal team to discuss your situation right away.

The Possible Consequences of Street Racing

Now, if someone is arrested and charged with street racing or stunt driving, they can face serious criminal consequences if convicted, including:

  • Minimum of ten days and up to one year in jail
  • License suspension for up to one year
  • Fines up to $5,000
  • Vehicle seizure for a third offense
  • Felony charges and penalties for fourth or subsequent offenses

However, criminal charges and penalties are not the only consequences if a street racer injures someone else, such as another driver, pedestrian, or anyone else not involved in the unlawful conduct.

Street racing and stunt driving involve many types of dangerous driving behaviors, including:

  • Excessive and dangerous speeding
  • Changing lanes or weaving
  • Tailgating
  • Illegal turns
  • Performing “tricks” on everyday roads
  • Stopping suddenly without warning

If a reckless driver loses control, cannot stop their car in time, or fails to notice another car or pedestrian in their path, they can crash and cause severe and life-changing injuries to the victim. Such injuries can include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, soft tissue injuries, fractures, burns, and more.

The racing driver can then face civil liability in addition to criminal penalties, as the injured victim can:

  • File insurance claims against the negligent drivers
  • File a personal injury lawsuit in civil court

These actions seek to recover damages for all medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses stemming from the street racing accident.

Speak with Our Forsyth County Personal Injury Attorneys Right Away

Even with the implementation of this new law, you should not expect the street racing problem to end anytime soon. Motorists, pedestrians, and others can suffer serious injuries due to dangerous street racers, and anyone injured should have a Cumming personal injury lawyer evaluate their rights. The law firm of Banks, Stubbs & McFarland can help. Contact us online or call us at 770-887-1209 as soon as possible.