Street racing charges cover more than lining up for a drag race — speed contests, timed runs, and even exhibitions of acceleration all fall under the same Texas statute, and the penalty jumps dramatically the moment anyone gets hurt. A Houston street racing lawyer can walk you through what you’re actually facing.
What Counts as Racing Under Texas Law
- Speed competitions and drag races: Any organized or spontaneous contest of speed between vehicles.
- Time trials: Racing against a clock over a set distance or route.
- Speed exhibitions: Showing off acceleration or handling in a way that draws a charge even without a second car involved.
How Texas Punishes It
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000 for racing on a highway.
- State jail felony: If someone is injured during the race.
Where These Cases Are Fought
Whether the driving actually meets the legal definition of a “race” or “exhibition,” as opposed to ordinary fast driving or a misread situation, is frequently the central issue. Video and witness accounts often tell a very different story than the initial stop suggested.
Charged With Street Racing? Contact Blass Law Now
Contact Blass Law for a confidential case evaluation or call (713)-664-4000 before this becomes a felony on your record.