One of the unexpected results of the COVID-19 pandemic is the nationwide increase in street racing
One of the unexpected results of the COVID-19 pandemic is the nationwide increase in street racing. It seems the streets have been relatively free of traffic, and with reruns of the Fast and Furious series showing constantly on streaming channels, many more people than normal have been using the deserted streets to test their skills and their engines against others. Two recent vehicle crash deaths in Nevada have been linked to this illegal activity.
Las Vegas area police departments have noticed and set aside a weekend in late April to crack down on this trend. This Joining Forces campaign was focused on street racing and reckless driving in particular. The take was an amazing 450 citations issued in one weekend for speeding, racing, and reckless driving. Local police forces will continue to focus on this activity.
Those who feel the need for speed and who don’t wish to deal with Law Enforcement efforts to curtail these activities, they may wish to consider Midnight Mayhem at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This may serve as an outlet for those who need to get their freak on behind the wheel and is open to drivers with valid driver’s licenses and a street legal vehicle, and costs $20 to enroll as a driver. Dates for theses upcoming events are June 26, July 10, August 7, and August 28.
Street Racing is a crime in Nevada
Speed Contests, as Nevada law terms this activity, are illegal on public roadways in Nevada. Both participating in a street contest or organizing an activity of this sort are violations of the criminal code. If the contest takes place and no one gets hurt, you may be charged with a misdemeanor for participating in a street contest. If someone is hurt or killed directly or indirectly as a result of the activity, you could be charged with a felony and do prison time.
Penalties get progressively more serious depending on how many times you are convicted of this offense and whether anyone was injured. If no one was injured, you may be charged with a misdemeanor with penalties for a:
- First Offense: Fine $250 to $1,000, between 50 to 99 hours community service, and up to 6 months in jail.
- Second Offense: Fine $1,000 to $1,500, between 100 to 200 hours of community service, and up to 6 months in jail.
- Third and Subsequent Offense: Fine $1,500 to $2,000, 200 hours of community service, and up to 6 months in jail.
Furthermore, your driver’s license may be suspended for as long as 2 years, and your vehicle may be impounded for 15 to 30 days.
If someone was killed or injured as a result of the illegal speed contest, whether a participant or a bystander who may have been using the road for legal reasons, or anyone else who was injured or killed due to the activity, you can be charged with a felony with a penalty of up $5,000 in fines and up to 6 years in state prison.
The Defenders can provide a defense to charges Street Racing
If you have been charged with either participating in or organizing an unauthorized street contest, you face serious charges which will potentially affect your criminal record and your driving record for years to come. You will need the skills and abilities of an experienced criminal lawyer to fight such charges. The lawyers of The Defenders will represent you in any court proceedings and negotiations with prosecutors to reduce your charges and penalties. Call our office today at (702) 333-3333 or click the green button at the bottom of the page to text us your information.
Learn More:
https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-484B.html#NRS484BSec653
https://www.ktnv.com/news/what-can-be-done-to-prevent-street-racing-deaths-
