Spectator to Street Racing-Statute 316.191(3)

In an attempt to combat street racers throughout Florida, the Florida legislature crafted a law which prohibits individuals from being a spectator at any drag racing event. Typically, motorists or motorcyclists will “shut down” roads and begin racing each other up the street. Law enforcement officers across the state, including Pinellas (Satellite Office), Hillsborough, and Miami-Dade have conducted sting operations to prevent such activity. In some instances the police shut down the roadway from both ends and they ticket every single person in the car, regardless of whether they were a driver or passenger. According to Florida law, Statute 316.191 (3) a states that a person may not be a spectator at any drag race, and that a person who violates this statute commits a moving violation pursuant to Florida Statute 318. A drag race is defined as two or more vehicles from a point side by side at accelerating speeds in a competitive attempt to outdistance each other, or the operation of one or more motor vehicles over a common selected course, from the same point to the same point, for the purpose of comparing the relative speeds or power of acceleration of such motor vehicle or motor vehicles within a certain distance or time limit.

The maximum punishment is three points on your driver’s license, a maximum fine of $500.00 and the possibility of court ordered traffic school. If you have been charged with a violation of this Florida statute 316.191 call our office so we can discuss any possible legal defenses.