The Dangers of Street Racing in Florida
Florida categorizes street racing as a first-degree criminal misdemeanor offense. If one is charged and convicted, they could face penalties for street racing in Florida that include: A mandatory one-year license suspension. A 30-day impound of the vehicle.
What Are the Penalties for Street Racing in Florida?
Florida categorizes street racing as a first-degree criminal misdemeanor offense. If one is charged and convicted, they could face penalties for street racing in Florida that include:
- A mandatory one-year license suspension.
- A 30-day impound of the vehicle.
- A fine for a first-time offense between $500 and $1,000.
For subsequent offenses within five years of the first offense, the penalties become harsher and include:
- A fine between $1,000 and $3,000 for a second offense.
- A mandatory two-year license suspension for a second offense.
- A fine between $2,000 and $5,000 for a third offense.
- A mandatory three-year license suspension for a third offense.
For repeat offenders, besides the mandatory 30-day vehicle impound, one could risk losing their vehicle and having it seized by the state. Furthermore, one could face varying periods of jail time as part of their sentencing for street racing.
Additionally, one will have the crime recorded on their criminal record. This can make it difficult to get a job. Plus, it will drastically increase auto insurance rates and make it difficult to get car insurance.
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The state will also require someone convicted of street racing to complete a Florida Basic Driver Improvement Course and/or a Florida Advanced Driver Improvement Course. Normally, if this is the first offense, the basic course is required. For subsequent offenses, the advanced course is required, although the court could mandate the driver to complete both courses even for a first offense.
