If you have been arrested in the Orlando area for street racing or for watching a street race in violation of Florida Statute 316.191 you will need an attorney to protect your rights! The attorneys of Finebloom & Haenel have experience in defending racing cases and are available to represent you!
The Florida legislature enacted the racing laws in response to several deaths that occurred when teens and young adults set up informal racing sessions in various parts of Florida. According to the law a person may not:
(a)Drive any motor vehicle, including any motorcycle, in any race, speed competition or contest, drag race or acceleration contest, test of physical endurance, or exhibition of speed or acceleration or for the purpose of making a speed record on any highway, roadway, or parking lot;
(b)In any manner participate in, coordinate, facilitate, or collect moneys at any location for any such race, competition, contest, test, or exhibition;
(c)Knowingly ride as a passenger in any such race, competition, contest, test, or exhibition; or
(d)Purposefully cause the movement of traffic to slow or stop for any such race, competition, contest, test, or exhibition.
(e) Make an affirmative decision to be present to view a race.
If the state is able to prove that you watched or participated in a race, you can be convicted of a first degree misdemeanor and sentenced to one year in jail. There are mandatory fines ranging between $500 and $5000 dollars, depending if it is a first, second or third offense, and your driver’s license will be suspended for two years.
The racing statute is pretty broad. If you admit to an officer that you were trying to keep someone from passing you on the road, or that you were trying to beat someone to a stop light you can be convicted of racing. It does not necessarily have to be a formal race.
Protect your license and your wallet!! Do not plea to a racing charge without speaking with a knowledgeable attorney who can help you. Call the attorneys of Finebloom & Haenel. Let us explain your possible defenses. We are available anytime by calling 407-218-6277.
