Street racing, an illegal and dangerous activity, poses significant risks to everyone on the road. When drivers engage in high-speed racing on public streets, they drastically reduce their ability to react to unexpected situations, increasing the likelihood of losing control of their vehicle. The intense speeds and aggressive maneuvers associated with road racing can lead to catastrophic street racing accidents, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. Innocent bystanders, other motorists, and the drivers themselves are all at risk when drivers choose to engage in road racing. The unpredictability of racing on public roads, where conditions are not controlled, makes it especially hazardous.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost one-third of traffic fatalities in the United States are speed-related crashes and street racing is responsible for an estimated 150 fatalities annually. This is because the likelihood of a fatal crash increases exponentially when speeds exceed 70 miles per hour, a common occurrence in road racing scenarios. These alarming numbers underscore the dangers of this reckless behavior, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns to deter drivers from participating in such life-threatening activities.
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a street racing accident, contact an experienced, local car accident attorney to discuss your legal rights.
19-Year-Old Man Arrested in Bellingham After Street Racing Accident Sends Four to Hospital
As reported by cascadiadaily.com, a 19-year-old man was arrested Wednesday evening, Aug. 7 on probable cause for vehicular assault and two counts of reckless endangerment after he allegedly caused a crash on Chuckanut Drive that sent him and three other people to the hospital.
At approximately 5:30 p.m., a gray Audi was allegedly speeding northbound on Chuckanut Drive, according to Megan Peters, the public information officer for the Bellingham Police Department. Witnesses at the scene claimed the Audi was racing with another vehicle.
What is Vehicular Assault?
In Washington State, RCW 46.61.522 has this to say about vehicular assault:
(1) A person is guilty of vehicular assault if he or she operates or drives any vehicle:
(a) In a reckless manner and causes substantial bodily harm to another; or
(b) While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, as defined by RCW 46.61.502, and causes substantial bodily harm to another; or
(c) With disregard for the safety of others and causing substantial bodily harm to another.
(2) Vehicular assault is a class B felony punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(3) As used in this section, “substantial bodily harm” has the same meaning as in RCW 9A.04.110.
What is Reckless Endangerment?
Reckless endangerment in the context of car accidents refers to a driver’s actions that create a substantial risk of serious harm or death to others, typically through extremely negligent or dangerous behavior. This can include actions such as:
- Driving significantly over the speed limit in a way that puts others at risk.
- Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or cutting off other drivers in a way that could cause an accident.
- Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Engaging in activities like texting or using a phone that take attention away from the road.
In many jurisdictions, reckless endangerment is a criminal offense and can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment, especially if the reckless behavior results in a car accident that causes injury or death. In Washington State, reckless endangerment is a gross misdemeanor.
Seek the Help of a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
