In light of the recent arrests in the Columbus area for participating in drag racing, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists statewide that street racing is illegal and an extremely dangerous activity that can lead to death, injury and property damage.
The Patrol would also like to remind motorists that persons rendering assistance in any manner to such competitive use of vehicles shall be equally charged as participants.
Street racing is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable with a fine of up to $1000.00, up to 6 months in jail and a license suspension for up to three years. Through 2005 to 2007 the Patrol arrested 95 motorists for street racing. Through June of this year the Patrol has arrested 22.
According to Ohio law “street racing” is defined as the operation of two or more vehicles from a point side by side at accelerating speeds in a competitive attempt to out-distance each other or the operation of one or more vehicles over a common selected course, from the same point to the same point, wherein timing is made of the participating vehicles involving competitive accelerations or speeds.
Motorists who observe this behavior on the roadways are urged to call the Patrol at 1-877-7-PATROL to report this activity.
