Street racing accidents have become a growing danger on Florida roadways. The thrill-seeking behavior of participants poses a significant risk to themselves, innocent bystanders, and law enforcement. Saying that street racing accidents are on the rise, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) have been focusing on enforcing stricter laws and penalties to combat this dangerous and illegal activity.
If you’ve been injured by someone’s recklessness, call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi law firm.
The Rise in Street Racing Accidents in Florida
Over the past few years, street racing accidents and related activities, such as street takeovers and stunt driving, have witnessed a disturbing increase in Florida. These actions disrupt the normal flow of traffic and pose a serious threat to public safety. Emergency vehicles responding to urgent situations are often delayed due to the chaos caused by street racing, putting lives at risk. It is crucial to address this issue promptly and effectively.
Impact on Public Safety and Emergency Response
Street racing activities have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the immediate dangers they pose to participants and innocent bystanders. These reckless actions can obstruct the normal flow of traffic, delay emergency vehicles, and jeopardize the timely response to emergencies. By engaging in street racing, individuals endanger themselves and the lives of others who rely on prompt emergency assistance.
Preventing Street Racing Accidents
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is dedicated to addressing the issue of street racing head-on. FHP officers are trained to enforce the laws of the state and are committed to maintaining order and safety on Florida roadways. Recognizing the criminal nature of street racing, FHP prioritizes shutting down these illegal activities and bringing offenders to justice. Law enforcement efforts have resulted in thousands of citations, arrests, and the discovery of dangerous contraband such as narcotics and firearms.
To effectively combat street racing, it is imperative to raise public awareness and educate individuals about the severe consequences associated with these illegal activities. The FLHSMV and FHP are actively working to target participants, spectators, passengers, and promoters involved in dangerous street takeovers and racing events. Social media platforms are also being monitored to identify and address events before they occur.
Encountering Street Racing: What to Do
If you encounter illegal street racing, stunt driving, or street takeovers, remain calm and prioritize your safety. Do not engage with the individuals involved in these activities. If possible, safely pull over to the side of the road and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Immediate dangers or emergencies should be reported by contacting 911.
Reporting street racing accidents is vital in the efforts to combat this dangerous behavior. If you have information regarding an upcoming street racing event or can identify participants, you can email StopRacing@flhsmv.gov and provide any corresponding screenshots or documentation.
Orlando Car Accident Attorney
If you are injured in an accident caused by someone participating in street racing, you may be eligible to seek compensation for the damages. If the collision with a street racing vehicle leads to medical expenses, your personal injury protection benefits from your vehicle will cover 80% of the reasonable and necessary medical costs. But you need to be able to identify the drivers responsible in case you need to file a claim against them. If you’ve been injured due to a street racing accident, don’t wait to talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida.
