On the surface, an empty road offers freedom and excitement. But the reality is that such roads can lead directly to a courtroom. Racing, even when no one else is around, is a serious offense with repercussions that can affect your driving record and more.
Street racing is inherently dangerous
Many drivers mistakenly believe that racing on empty roads poses no risk to others. However, this assumption overlooks several crucial factors.
Unexpected obstacles or wildlife can suddenly appear and lead to accidents, and other drivers may enter the road without warning. High-speed driving also reduces reaction time, making it harder to respond to emergencies.
Illegal regardless of road conditions or time of day
Street racing is a Class A misdemeanor in Missouri. The law does not differentiate between a crowded highway and a desolate country road. If caught for street racing, you might be looking at:
- Hefty fines (up to $2,000)
- Jail time (up to one year)
- License suspension
- Vehicle impoundment
- Criminal record
Repeat offenders may face felony charges with even harsher penalties. Racing also often involves other traffic violations, such as speeding or reckless driving.
Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a street racing conviction can upend your life. It can impact job prospects, insurance rates and personal relationships. For young drivers, it may affect college admissions and scholarship eligibility.
Missouri law enforcement can issue citations based on their judgment of a driver’s behavior, even without radar evidence. This discretion means that drivers might face charges for racing even if they believe they were driving safely.
If you encounter charges for racing or similar traffic offenses, it is best to seek legal help as soon as possible. Your attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge evidence and potentially reduce charges or penalties. In some cases, they may even be able to have charges dismissed entirely.