Racing

Since the Washington State legislature passed new racing laws last year, Tacoma police have been cracking down hard. Over the last decade, racing has become a serious problem across Pierce County, with more races and accidents. On average, nearly 50 Tacomans die every year from accidents caused by racing. Some of the victims weren't even participating in the race. If Tacoma law enforcement catches you racing, they will throw the book at you.

Although cracking down on racing is important for road safety, not all racing charges are legitimate. Racing charges mostly rely on subjective observations that could simply be wrong. For example, you could have been speeding but not racing. However, without clear evidence like video footage or witness testimony that proves you were racing, it's difficult to prove you were actually racing. These charges can be challenged in court.

Our Tacoma attorneys can help. Whether you were racing or not, a strong legal defense will help protect you against excessive penalties. We'll review your case and scrutinize your charges. If they don't hold up, we'll fight to have them dismissed. Get started now by calling our Tacoma law offices and speaking with a qualified lawyer who specializes in racing defense for free.

RCW 46.61.530 states:

"A person who knowingly drives a vehicle in a race or speed contest on a public highway or street, or who engages in a race with another vehicle, is guilty of reckless driving or other offenses under the law."

Washington State racing laws apply whether you're directly racing another vehicle or engaging in any form of competitive driving that involves a deliberate attempt to speed or outmaneuver another vehicle. However, there must be clear evidence that you were knowingly participating in such a race for a charge to be valid. In many cases, we can challenge these charges, especially if the evidence is circumstantial, such as simply driving fast without intent to race, or if other factors, like road conditions or misinterpretation of behavior, are involved.

Tacoma law enforcement issues racing tickets often, even when a person isn't racing. Expect to get a racing ticket if:

• You were speeding on Pacific Avenue and trying to outpace another vehicle.
• You were driving at high speeds through the tunnels on State Route 16, especially with another car nearby.
• You were doing burnouts or revving your engine in parking lots near the Tacoma Dome.
• You were speeding over 100 mph on I-5.
• You were rapidly accelerating at traffic lights in Hilltop.
• You were weaving through traffic on the Puyallup Riverwalk with another car, trying to keep up.
• You sped away through a red light at South Tacoma Way and 56th Street.

While none of these scenarios involved directly racing with another vehicle, they could land you with racing charges in Tacoma.

If you face a racing conviction in Tacoma, the penalties are severe. Here's a look at what could happen if the Pierce County Courts convict you of racing:

• You could face reckless driving charges under RCW 46.61.500, which is a misdemeanor that leads to fines, jail time, and a suspended license.
• You may have to pay fines between $500 and $10,000.
• Your insurance rates could increase significantly, or your insurer may cancel your policy entirely.
• The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) could suspend your license for up to a year.

A prior racing conviction or aggravating factors carry more severe penalties. The best way to reduce these penalties is to work with a local Tacoma lawyer who knows the law. Call us now to speak to one for free.

Tacoma is home to several long stretches of road, such as South Tacoma Way and Ruston Way, where drivers sometimes push the limits of speed and performance. While these roads may seem ideal for racing or speeding, racing on them is illegal. However, there are certain areas, like the Tacoma Dome District, where racing events are sometimes legally organized and permitted in controlled environments like the Tacoma R/C Raceway. Drivers should stick to these races, as these venues provide a safe and regulated space for car enthusiasts to engage in racing without breaking the law.

With our experience across Western Washington, we know you could still face charges in Tacoma if the police believe you were engaging in dangerous driving behavior, even if you weren't actively racing. For example, if Tacoma law enforcement catches you speeding, weaving through traffic, or driving aggressively near areas like Sixth Avenue or Steilacoom Boulevard, you could be mistaken for racing. We know the specific areas where these charges often occur and understand how to challenge the evidence and protect your rights. Having an attorney familiar with Tacoma's courts, traffic patterns, and law enforcement can make all the difference when facing racing charges in the city.

Police can arrest you for racing even if you weren't actually racing. They only need to believe you were. Racing charges have big penalties, including fines, license suspension, or jail time. With knowledge of how to challenge the evidence and protect you, we can help you fight the charges. Call us now for a free consultation.

After Tacoma law enforcement issues you a citation for racing, here is what you can expect to happen next:

1. You Will Go To Court: After receiving your citation, you'll need to appear in Pierce County District Court for a hearing. You can find the court date and time on your citation. Failure to show up could result in an arrest warrant.
2. You Will Enter Your Plea: At your court appearance, you'll have the option to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead guilty, the Tacoma judge will decide your sentence. If you plead not guilty, your case will go to trial in Pierce County, and you will need to present evidence or arguments to defend yourself.
3. You Will Face Sentencing: After the judge hears your case, they will issue a sentence. If convicted, your penalties will vary depending on your circumstances.
4. You Can Appeal: If the judge rules against you, you can appeal the decision or negotiate a reduced sentence, depending on the circumstances and whether this is your first offense.

Beyond fines and license suspension, being convicted of racing could raise your insurance premiums or even lead to policy cancellation. A conviction will negatively impact your life, so you must always consult a qualified driver defense attorney in Tacoma when facing racing charges.

Racing is a complex charge that isn't always legitimate. So, no matter the circumstances behind the charge, you need to speak to an attorney. They will review the legitimacy of your charges and make a plan to defend you. Fortunately, you can talk to our Tacoma legal team for free. Our experienced Pierce County attorneys specialize in fighting racing charges. Call us now, and we'll review your case and help you understand all your legal options.

A single moment of adrenaline-fueled thrill can lead to life-altering consequences. This is the harsh reality you face when illegally street racing in Tacoma. Street racing, as you can see often glamorized in movies, carries severe legal, financial, and personal repercussions under Washington state law. Not only can you face increased insurance rates but you might even find these charges can disrupt your daily life and future opportunities like employment.

The emotional toll these charges can have on you is also significant, extending beyond the courtroom. You can begin to feel overwhelmed by the weight of the charges, from family strain to the embarrassment of having it on public record.

If you're caught participating in a speed contest on the streets of Tacoma, found assisting other people in a race, or were simply just a spectator to a street race, you can face criminal charges. Law enforcement uses surveillance, sting operations, and community tips to target racing hotspots around town. This can make it hard to escape detection.

For drivers charged with racing violations, the aftermath can be overwhelming. A conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, higher insurance premiums, and a tarnished reputation. This is why it is important to understand your rights and explore your options for defense. Experienced legal counsel can help mitigate penalties, challenge evidence, and even negotiate reduced charges in some cases.

Remember, while the lure of street racing may feel exhilarating, the risks far outweigh the rewards. So if you're facing these charges, finding the right legal representation is your best chance to protect your future and driving privileges.

Tacoma’s urban layout and surrounding highways make it a tempting environment for street racing. You can find long stretches of road, like the I-5 corridor, and industrial zones that you might see as low risk for enforcement. However, these areas are under constant surveillance because illegal racing poses a danger to drivers, pedestrians, and even property. The city takes a very proactive approach that includes patrols, speed traps, and collaborations with state troopers to try and deter this kind of behavior from happening in the first place.

If you are caught racing, the charges are not taken lightly and are considered a great threat to public safety. Street racing can also lead to noise complaints, property damage, and a heightened sense of insecurity among Tacoma’s residents. Violations of street racing laws can lead to significant fines, vehicle impoundment, and even jail time in more serious cases. The legal repercussions send a strict message: reckless driving will not be tolerated. Understanding how local regulations and community concerns influence the penalties for illegal street racing is important as you build a defense strategy against your charges.

Washington state takes illegal street racing seriously and has several laws and statutes to deter this dangerous behavior. Under RCW 46.61.530, participating in or facilitating a speed contest is considered a misdemeanor offense. This includes racing on public roads, highways, or any areas accessible to the public, even parking lots. Those convicted can face fines, jail time, or both. This law also targets spectators who knowingly attend illegal street racing events.

Another applicable statute you want to familiarize yourself with when facing these charges in Tacoma is RCW 46.20.342. This addresses the consequences of driving with a suspended license, which is often a byproduct of street racing convictions. If your license is revoked or suspended because of racing-related violations, you may face even more penalties.

Vehicle impoundment laws, under RCW 46.55.113, allow law enforcement to seize your vehicle if it is involved in racing. This can create significant financial strain for you.

Finally, when discussing street racing, we should also mention RCW 46.61.500. This law addresses reckless driving, which is a charge that usually goes hand in hand with racing violations. Reckless driving is when there is a willful disregard for the safety of people and property. Street racing almost always qualifies as reckless driving, and a conviction can result in a gross misdemeanor charge, which can carry a potential jail sentence of up to one year and a fine of up to $5,000.

If you are facing racing charges in Tacoma, you should know they can be more than a simple legal inconvenience. They can significantly impact your freedom, financial stability, and future.

Even a first offense can lead to harsh penalties, including fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and potential jail time. Trying to tackle all of the legalities by yourself can be overwhelming, which is why you need an experienced defense attorney at your side.

A skilled attorney will look at all the details of your case, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to try and reduce the charges or dismiss them altogether. Whether it’s disputing the accuracy of speed-tracking devices that might have been used or questioning the legality of the actual traffic stop, your attorney’s expertise can make a big difference.

We believe that every street racing charge can be challenged with the right legal strategy. For over 20 years, our attorneys have defended clients against driving-related offenses across Western Washington.

If you or a loved one are facing street racing charges, consult an experienced traffic defense attorney as soon as possible. They can explore every angle of your case, challenge the evidence, and work to secure a favorable outcome.

Our Tacoma street racing attorneys are dedicated and aggressive advocates who will fight tirelessly to protect your freedom and help you maintain your driving privileges.

Drag racing is a serious crime in Tacoma, and a conviction will incur mandatory punishments that could have a devastating effect on your life. In Washington State, racing is defined as engaging in a relative contest of speed with another motorist, and the penalties are the same as those for a reckless driving offense. Reckless driving is defined as showing wonton disregard for other people and personal property, which pertains to street racing as well. The racing attorneys at the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe will protect your legal rights as you deal with the repercussions of this serious charge, so don't hesitate to schedule your own consultation today.

Our team of Tacoma racing lawyers has more than 3 decades of collective experience, and we will use it to defend your interests and minimize your punishments however possible. If convicted for Tacoma racing you will incur a gross misdemeanor, which leaves you subject to serving up to a year in jail and paying fines of up to $5,000. Your driver's license will also be suspended, and upon its reinstatement you will be required to carry expensive high-risk auto insurance for three years.

It's possible that these penalties can be mitigated in some way, so speak with one of our Tacoma racing attorneys about your situation and find out more about how we can help. There are many misconceptions about street racing, especially when it comes to the nature of the punishments. One thing is certain: A momentary lapse in judgment could land you in jail, cause you to lose your Tacoma job, or cost substantial fines that put a financial burden on you and your family.

Sometimes a Tacoma driver is falsely accused of racing. If you believe that this is true in your situation, you need the experience and dedication that only qualified Tacoma racing lawyers can provide. Preparing a fact-based defense requires a comprehensive investigation of the details, and adequate groundwork for your Tacoma racing court date.

Contact our Tacoma law firm today and schedule your own cost-free case evaluation. Start getting answers about your racing charge from our team of professional litigators who handle hundreds of cases annually. Our extensive experience will help ensure that your rights are fairly acknowledged, and by aggressively representing your interests we can seek multiple paths toward minimizing the damage a racing conviction in Tacoma could cause.

Talk to one of our Tacoma racing lawyers via a confidential consultation, and start getting reliable answers to your questions based upon Washington law. If you retain one of our Tacoma lawyers, they will be at your side until your case is entirely resolved, so contact our law office without any further delay.