Speeding and reckless driving under any conditions are dangerous. However, when drivers race each other or try to outperform each other, they put themselves and others at risk for catastrophic and potentially fatal injuries.
Cities and states across the country have been cracking down on activities commonly referred to as street racing, stunt driving or drag racing with criminal penalties that can far exceed the typical speeding ticket.
Georgia is one of those states. Last year, Gov. Brian Kemp signed a law that addresses “reckless stunt driving” on highways as well as private property without the owner’s permission. The consequences can involve driver’s license suspension, fines and/or time behind bars.
Penalties increase with each conviction
A first conviction, which is a misdemeanor, can carry up to a $750 fine and 10-and-a-half months in jail. A fourth or subsequent conviction, within ten years, which is a felony, can carry as much as a $5,000 fine and a five-year jail sentence.
The length of the time you lose your driver’s license also increases with each conviction. For example, it can be up to a year for a first conviction and five years for a third conviction. The penalties for driving without a valid license can also face a hefty fine and jail time.
Gov. Kemp said that law enforcement officials and prosecutors have told Georgia legislators and him that “this revolving door of just writing tickets or taking somebody down one night and they’re back at it the next night is not getting the job done and so, that’s what we did.”
Unfortunately, it can be all too easy sometimes to get caught up in situations that can put you behind the wheel in a street race. If you or a loved one has been arrested and is facing charges under this law, it’s crucial to take the matter seriously and seek legal guidance.