Promoting or Spectating Street Racing in Georgia

It is common knowledge that racing is a crime, but many people are unaware that promoting, organizing, or even spectating racing in Georgia are also crimes. Furthermore, these charges can have significant penalties. Whether you have been charged with racing, promoting a racing event, or spectating an event, call our team of experience Racing Attorneys in Roswell. We have a firm understanding of the state's laws, penalties, and possible defenses if you are charged with one of these crimes. Call us today for a free case evaluation. 

Georgia Laws on Racing, Promoting Racing, Organizing Racing, or Spectating a Racing Event 

In Georgia, street racing is illegal under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-186, which prohibits racing on highways and streets.  However, Georgia law does not just target drivers who participate in illegal street racing—it also penalizes individuals who promote, organize, or even spectate these events. Under recent legislative updates, anyone found "knowingly present and actively facilitating" a street race can face misdemeanor charges. This includes individuals who advertise races on social media, block off roads to create a racing space, or encourage participants to engage in dangerous driving behaviors. Spectators can also face fines, starting at $250, even if they are not directly involved in the race. Law enforcement agencies across Georgia have increased their efforts to crack down on illegal street racing gatherings, using surveillance footage, social media tracking, and eyewitness testimonies to identify violators. If you have been accused of promoting or attending a street race, consulting with one of our Roswell Racing Lawyers is essential to understanding your rights and legal options.

Penalties for Promoting or Organizing Street Racing

Promoting or organizing street racing in Georgia is classified as a high and aggravated misdemeanor. A conviction of a high and aggravated misdemeanor will result in up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $5,000. 

Penalties for Spectating Street Racing

As we mentioned earlier, even spectators are not exempt from legal repercussions. Under the updated law, individuals "knowingly present and actively facilitating" a street race can be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable by:

• Fines: Starting at $250.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond immediate penalties, a conviction for racing or promoting racing can have lasting impacts including: 

• Criminal Record: Affects employment opportunities, educational prospects, and housing applications.

• Social Stigma: Being associated with illegal activities can harm personal and professional relationships.

Our Defense Strategy 

If you're charged with promoting, organizing, or spectating street racing, call us as soon as possible to begin working with an experienced Roswell Racing Attorney. Potential defense strategies include:

• Lack of Knowledge: Arguing that you were unaware of the illegal nature of the event.

• No Active Facilitation: Demonstrating that your presence did not contribute to the facilitation of the race.

• Violation of Rights: Challenging the legality of the arrest or the methods used by law enforcement.

Contact Us Today

Georgia's stringent laws against street racing extend beyond drivers to those who promote, organize, or spectate these events. The associated penalties are severe, reflecting the state's dedication to public safety. If you're facing such charges, seeking out experienced Roswell Racing Lawyers is imperative to navigating the complexities of the legal system and to protect your rights.