Auto Accidents and Street Racing: What You Need to Know

Street racing is becoming increasingly common. Unfortunately, auto accidents and street racing often go hand in hand, causing serious injury and even death. Traveling at fast speeds can cause a driver to careen out of control, resulting in running a red light, a head-on collision, or a rollover. Many times, these auto accidents affect innocent individuals. In Orange County, CA, Attorney Sean M. Burke can help victims obtain the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

Participation in Street Racing Is Increasing

Drag racing is dangerous enough. But when drivers take to urban roads to test their high-speed sports cars, chaos can ensue. People of all ages have been involved in cases of street racing. However, the most common demographic participating in street racing is young men between the ages of 15 and 23.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the leading cause of death among drivers aged 16 to 20 is vehicular accidents. Despite the increasing public awareness regarding street racing, the practice is thriving.

Common Causes of Accidents Involving Street Racing

There are certain factors that raise the risk of injury or death while driving. These include:

• Driving at High Speeds: We have all seen it happen. While driving down a highway or interstate, cars suddenly zip in and out of traffic, driving at 20, 30, and 40 miles over the speed limit. The faster a car is going, the longer it will take the driver to react. This does not bode well for someone who needs to put on the brakes or swerve to avoid an accident.
• Anger: Driving angry is not good for anyone. A high-adrenaline, emotionally fueled practice like street racing can bring out the worst in people.
• Rainy Weather: Road conditions that cause most people to be extra cautious while driving are typically ignored by street racers. Rainwater mixes with the oil on the roads, creating a slippery surface that can cause vehicles to skid out of control.
• Ignoring Red Lights: When driving at high speeds, it is difficult to slow down and stop when necessary. This leads to running stop signs or red lights. If drivers run a red light, they not only risk a collision with cars crossing the intersection, but they also endanger cars in front of them that may have just passed through the light.
• Driving Drunk: Driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the primary causes of accidents while street racing. Alcohol consumption inhibits a person’s ability to operate a car under normal circumstances, much less if you are participating in a street race.

Street Racing Can be Devastating

It only takes a few seconds to lose control of a car and have a collision. If someone - either the driver or an innocent bystander - is injured, his or her life will most likely never be the same. Of course, if the accident is fatal, it will change the lives of the loved ones left behind.

In addition to emotional trauma, street racing can lead to extensive medical bills, due to numerous surgeries, therapies, and treatments. Common injuries from street racing include:

• Lacerations
• Internal bleeding
• Severe burns
• Organ damage
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injury
• Brain injury

Learn More about Your Rights

If you or a loved one is a victim of street racing, you are entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering. The Law Offices of Sean M. Burke can help you overcome the losses you have experienced. For a consultation, call us at (949) 644-3434, or contact us online.