Legal Review: Drag Racing — Dangers, Statistics & Efforts to Curb the Street Racing

Drag racing is among the most awe-inspiring auto sports. However, real-life drag racing is extremely dangerous. This is perhaps because the illegal sport often involves high speeds, drunk driving, aggressive driving and total disregard of traffic laws. Also, rain and other weather conditions can significantly increase the chances of a drag race accident.

How Dangerous Is Drag Racing?

Drag racing is dangerous for everyone, including participating drivers, spectators, and innocent people who happen to be at the wrong place and wrong time. In most cases, drag race crashes happen when the drivers lose control over their vehicle, striking a pedestrian or crashing into other parked cars, buildings, signs and fences.

In severe cases, a drag racing accident may cause deaths, property damage, or severe injuries such as concussions, broken bones, torn ligaments, and lacerations. That’s why you need to warn your child of the potential dangers and risks of drag racing if you suspect they are planning to participate in such an event.

Drag Racing Statistics

The following facts and figures paint a chilling picture of why drag racing is such a dangerous activity. These facts will help you identify a potential drag racing activity and avoid it whenever possible.

• Most street racers are males aged between 15 and 23
• Two-thirds of people killed in street racing accidents are between the ages of 15 and 30
• Approximately 70 percent of illegal drag racing activities happen at night
• Half of all illicit street racing events occur on public highways, while the other half happens on commercial roads, residential streets, and parking lots
• Most drag racing cars have special modifications that make them faster, meaning injuries are likely to be more severe in the event of an accident

What Happens If You Get Injured in a Drag Racing Accident?

Over the years, this dangerous activity has become increasingly popular, and we are seeing drivers, spectators, and innocent parties sustain injuries related to drag race crashes all across Texas. In Kerrville, for instance, a street racing accident claimed the life of a six-year-old boy on the spot and left two others with severe injuries.

“These short term thrills gained from drag racing can have severe consequences on the lives of others,” says attorney Felix Gonzalez. “It may be in your best interest to speak with an accident lawyer to help you receive the compensation you and your loved ones deserve.”

Efforts to Prevent Accidents Related to Street Racing

The federal and state laws prohibit traffic offenses such as racing on highways, reckless driving, and speeding. That means law enforcement officers will disrupt illegal drag race meetings on the streets. They will also arrest those breaking traffic laws and fine car owners whose vehicles have altered engines and illicit devices.

If you have been injured in a road accident and suspect the driver was racing, you may qualify to pursue compensation. However, you must prove in court that your injuries were a result of someone else’s negligence. Negligence, in this case, means that the party at fault owed you a duty of care which they breached, causing you injuries or even property damages.