During strict stay-at-home orders in April, street racers seemed to take advantage of open roads. In just one night, Detroit police issued more than 30 tickets for violations and impounded at least 10 cars. Under Michigan Vehicle Code Section 257.626(a), it’s illegal for any person to partake in a “speed or acceleration contest” from a starting point for a measured or unmeasured distance.
If you were in an accident with a street racer, you should seek legal representation from an auto accident attorney.
What Is Street Racing?
Street racing is an illegal form of auto racing that occurs on public roads. In the United States, modern street racing has its roots back to Woodward Avenue, Michigan in the 1960s with the three leading Detroit-based American car companies. Street racing grew even more popular thanks to the movie franchise The Fast and the Furious.
There are four main types of street racing you need to be aware of on Michigan roads: spontaneous, pre-staged, closed, and all-out racing. All pose a serious risk to drivers.
Spontaneous Racing
This race is not planned, and the drivers often do not know each other. Most of these races start at stoplights with one driver revving their engine. A race may simply be to the next light or go much further.
Pre-Staged Racing
Drivers meet up beforehand, usually in a parking lot, and discuss who will race each other and where. It may start at a stoplight or a rolling start where a driver honks their horn three times to signal the beginning of the race.
Closed Racing
While no street racing is particularly safe, many street racers deem closed racing as the safest. This type of racing is usually in industrial parks or on less-traveled roads.
All-Out Racing
Multiple racers compete for large amounts of money or even vehicle registrations. They may race across town or for a set amount of miles. Since there’s so much at stake for racers, this is often considered the most dangerous type of street racing.
How to Avoid Street Racers
Street racing is a hazardous activity and poses a severe risk to other motorists. The most common time for racers is after midnight but before dawn. To keep yourself safe, especially if you live in an area commonly used for street racing, it may be in your best interest to stay off the roads during this time. However, if this is unavoidable, it’s vital to practice extreme caution when on the streets.
When a traffic light turns green, wait an extra second to ensure there is no traffic coming from the other direction. Street racers are reckless and may not stop for a red light at 4 a.m. If you’re at a red light, and the driver next to you is revving their engine or gesturing hand signals at you, they likely want a race. Do not engage or make eye contact. Once the light turns green, they’ll most likely speed away. If you can safely do so, get their license plate number. Once you’re at a safe location, report the incident to law enforcement.
Compensation for Auto Accidents Caused by Street Racing
Street racers are often driving at excessive speeds and fail to stop at stop signs or traffic lights. The concept of street racing involves an extreme level of disregard for the rules of the road and a severe disregard for others’ safety. Unfortunately, more and more drivers seem to be getting involved in street racing in Michigan. Below are some of the more common auto accidents related to street racing:
- Broken bones
- Wrongful death
- Spinal cord injury
- Burns and lacerations
- Brain injury
- Pain and suffering
After being in an auto accident, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. Many injuries can be treated if caught quickly. However, some conditions may not appear right away, and doctors can diagnose internal injuries.
Contact an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney in Michigan
After being in an accident involving illegal street racers, you may feel overwhelmed or helpless. The skilled attorneys at the Michigan Legal Center can fight for justice on your behalf and walk you through the next steps.
With over 20 years of experience, our auto accident attorneys can provide you with the knowledge and legal representation you need after suffering injuries because of another party’s negligence. Call (248) 886-8650 or complete an online contact form to schedule a free consultation.