Street racing can land drivers in considerable trouble with the law. The RMB Lawyers Criminal Division explains the legal definitions of street racing – and the consequences if you are caught.
The Fast and the Furious Films are popular movies about street racing, but do you know what the definition of street racing is according to the law? Many people do not.
According to the law in NSW, street racing behaviour includes a race between two or more vehicles on a NSW road.
The racing does not have to be part of an organised car race to be considered illegal. You and another driver could be driving along the road and if you both suddenly speed up at the same time, driving alongside each other, the police will consider that you are street racing.
Other examples of street racing are:
- Attempts to break a vehicle speed record on a road.
- Any trial of a vehicle on a road.
- Any competitive trial designed to test the skill of any vehicle driver or the reliability or mechanical condition of any vehicle on the road.
- Organising, promoting or taking part in any of the above.
The police and the courts take a strong stance against street racing because it raises the chances of an accident occurring where someone is either injured or killed. If you are pulled over for street racing, your licence will be immediately suspended, and your vehicle may be impounded.
If you're convicted of street racing by the court, the maximum court-imposed fine is $3300 for a first offence. For a second or subsequent offence, you could be fined $3300 and face nine months imprisonment. Your licence will also be disqualified for a period of time if you are convicted, with a maximum disqualification period of 12 months. You may also face other charges besides street racing, such as speeding or negligent driving.
If you find yourself charged with street racing, RMB Lawyers has expert traffic lawyers who can provide you with the representation you need in order to get the best result possible. You can contact our office by phone on Freecall 1800 681 211 for a consultation, or use our 'Ask a Question' tool on our website.