Many new drivers face temptation to drive at high speeds on Ohio roadways, especially if they drive expensive or fast cars. When individuals engage in races on the road, it creates an environment that could lead to disaster. Drag racing can cause serious car accidents, resulting in significant bodily injuries or death.
Not only can individuals that engage in racing on the roadway face life-threatening injuries, they subject themselves to harsh penalties through Ohio court. It is essential that all drivers abide by traffic laws, so that other drivers and pedestrians have access to safe roads. Should you or your teenager face penalties for drag racing on highways or side streets, you want to seek the expertise of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. Especially as a young driver, penalties received now can impact driving rights in the future.
Street racing is a first-degree misdemeanor
According to Ohio law, street racing, or drag racing, occurs when two or more drivers attempt to race each other side by side. Deciding whether competition exists is the key in determining whether an individual commits a street racing crime. Due to the increased speeds and danger that one slight adjustment creates, teenagers can face serious penalties if caught.
The law states it is illegal to engage in drag racing on all public roads and highways.
No matter if an officer catches you street racing for the first time, you will still face a charge of an alleged first-degree misdemeanor. Ohio treats street racing as a serious danger to the public, no matter if any other drivers were present.
First-degree misdemeanors include punishments such as:
- Suspension of driver’s license for 30 days to three years
- Jail time for up to 180 days
- Up to $1,000 in associated fines
For your own safety and the safety of others, it is essential not to engage in any type of racing on public roads in Ohio. Should an officer allege you or your teenager committed such acts, you want to immediately speak with an attorney about avoiding serious consequences. Young individuals make mistakes, but you do not want these mistakes to have a serious financial or criminal impact on your future.
