Understanding Florida’s Racing on Street or Highway Law
Racing on streets or highways is a serious criminal offense in Florida. Many people underestimate its consequences until they face charges.
Florida Statute 316.191 outlines the laws and penalties related to street racing, which can result in severe consequences, including license suspensions, hefty fines, and even jail time. In this blog article, we’ll explore the key components of the law and highlight how criminal defense attorney Katherine Aranda has successfully handled such cases, often securing reductions that helped her clients avoid license suspensions.
Florida Statute 316.191: Racing on Streets and Highways
Under Florida law, it is illegal to engage in any form of street racing, stunt driving, or acceleration contests on public roads. Specifically, the statute prohibits:
- Participating in a Race – Driving any vehicle in a race, speed competition, or acceleration contest.
- Coordinating a Race – Organizing, scheduling, or promoting a race.
- Spectating – Attending a race as a spectator can also lead to charges in certain circumstances.
The law defines “racing” broadly to include any type of competition involving speed, acceleration, or skill between vehicles on public streets or highways. This applies even if the “race” is informal or spur-of-the-moment.
Penalties for Racing on Streets or Highways
A conviction under Florida Statute 316.191 can lead to significant penalties, even for first-time offenders. Penalties include:
- First Offense:
- A misdemeanor of the first degree
- Mandatory driver’s license suspension for 1 year
- Fines range between $500 and $1,000
- Up to 1 year of probation or jail time
- Vehicle impoundment for 30 days
- Second and Subsequent Offenses:
- Increased fines between $1,000 and $3,000
- Longer driver’s license suspensions
- Potential jail time up to 1 year
In addition, a street racing charge can lead to higher insurance premiums, points on your license, and damage to your reputation.
Katherine Aranda’s Proven Success in Street Racing Cases
Katherine Aranda, an attorney at Sammis Law Firm, has extensive experience defending clients charged with racing on streets or highways. As a skilled trial attorney who has conducted three jury trials specifically involving racing charges, she understands how to strategically challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.
In many cases, Katherine has successfully negotiated with prosecutors to reduce charges, ensuring her clients avoid the mandatory driver’s license suspension. Her in-depth understanding of the law and dedication to her clients have resulted in outcomes that minimize the long-term impact of a street racing charge.
Your criminal defense attorney can take the following actions in your case:
- Challenging whether the alleged actions meet the legal definition of “racing.”
- Questioning the reliability of witness testimony or video evidence.
- Highlighting procedural errors in how law enforcement handled the case.
Katherine’s ability to take cases to trial when necessary and fight for her clients sets her apart as a tenacious and skilled advocate. Read more about the prosecution of racing crimes in Pinellas County, FL.
Why You Need an Experienced Attorney for Racing Charges
Contact Sammis Law Firm to talk with attorney Katherine Aranda. Find out more about how she can help you:
- Analyze the facts of the case.
- Negotiate reduced charges or alternative penalties.
- Take cases to trial when necessary to defend your rights.
Facing a racing charge is not something to take lightly. Without proper representation, you could face severe penalties that affect your ability to drive, work, and maintain your everyday life. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney like Katherine Aranda on your side ensures that you have someone fighting for the best possible outcome.
Call 727-210-7004.