Racing
Charged with racing or stunt driving? We fight to protect your license, reduce harsh penalties, and keep your record clean.
What Counts as Racing
Florida Statute § 316.191 prohibits participating in or organizing drag racing, street races, street takeovers or stunt driving on public roads. The law applies to drivers, passengers, organizers and even those who facilitate the event. It also covers “street takeovers,” where a group blocks traffic to perform stunts such as drifting or spinning (“donuts”).
Penalties
First offense: Racing is a first‑degree misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail, a fine of $500–$1,000 and a one‑year license revocation.
Second offense within five years: Minimum fine of $1,000, a two‑year license revocation and possible jail time.
Third or subsequent offense: Mandatory fine of $2,500, a four‑year license revocation and the vehicle may be forfeited.
Spectators: Even watching a race without participating can result in a citation and fines.
Defending Racing Charges
Racing cases often hinge on police observations, video evidence and whether a group of vehicles was competing or simply accelerating. The statute defines racing broadly, but to convict the state must show that you willfully participated in a race, not just drove fast. Defenses may include arguing that you were not involved, challenging the accuracy of radar or dash‑cam evidence, or negotiating to reduce charges to a noncriminal speeding ticket.
Ticket Shield’s Role
The attorneys at Ticket Shield have defended many racing and street takeover cases. We investigate whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, whether your conduct constituted racing or just speeding, and whether the traffic stop was constitutional. Our team seeks to minimize penalties, preserve your driving privileges and protect you from asset forfeiture. We also represent spectators facing citations to help keep their records clean.
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