New Florida Law Makes Street Racing A Third Degree Felony

Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

It is dangerous, reckless, negligent, and now the penalties are more severe. In a press release, the Tampa Police Department reports that as of July 1, 2024, street racing, stunts, and takeovers are now considered a third-degree felony.

Any vehicle caught involved in these acts can be seized and impounded, and the owners of seized cars will be charged towing and storage fees. Participants can also be charged with a third-degree felony, fined up to $4,000, and risk having their license revoked for a period of two years. Even spectators attending coordinated street racing, stunt, or takeover events can be fined.

Why? According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), the number of citations given for these illegal activities has been on the rise in Florida. In a study conducted by the FLHSMV, it was found that only 896 citations were given in 2018, but 2,573 were given in 2023. 

While there was a slight dip in citations given in 2019, as just 855 were issued that year, in 2020, that number increased to 1,295. In 2021 the number climbed to 1,657 citations for the year, and in 2022 it grew to 1,948 citations for the year. This means that between 2018 and 2023, a total of 9,224 citations were issued in relation to street racing and stunt driving.

If you encounter street racing, stunt driving, or a street takeover, the FLHSMV recommends remaining calm, not engaging, pulling off to the side of the road if possible, and reporting it to authorities. You can call *FHP (*347) or 911 if you come across any of these illegal acts happening live, or you can email [email protected] to report information about an upcoming event.
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Article by Ema Tibbetts