In New Jersey, street racing is illegal. Racing on highways is prohibited in New Jersey in order to ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers on the streets. Violations of vehicle and traffic regulations are cited in New Jersey in order to encourage compliance. Any participation in illegal speed contests is prohibited under two New Jersey statutes (NJSA 39:4-52, NJSA 39:5C-1). Similar penalties are imposed under both statutes, but NJSA 39:5C-1 covers a broader range of offenses.

What Is Considered Street Racing In NJ?

Under NJSA 39:4-52, it is illegal to operate a vehicle on a public highway for the purpose of wagers or race or to establish a speed record. According to New Jersey law NJSA 39:5C-1, street racing occurs when a motor vehicle is operated, attempted to be operated, or agreed to be operated on a public highway in one of the following ways:

• When racing with another motor vehicle; or
• As part of a speed record attempt

NJSA 39:5C-1 is not limited to punishing the driver, but anyone who is involved in organizing, managing, encouraging, or helping to arrange any race or speed event or attempting to do so may be considered to participate in speed racing. 

Fines and Other Penalties for Street Racing

NJ Street racing violations are punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both. As a first offense, a person violating this section may be fined not less than $25 nor more than $100, and, in the event of a subsequent offense, the fine must not fall below $100 nor exceed $200. In NJ, there is no jail time if you are convicted for racing for the first time. The judge may, however, impose up to 90 days in jail upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense.

Fine for drag racing in New Jersey carries a point value. The State of New Jersey adds five points to a person’s driving record for each conviction of racing on a highway. The driver will have to pay a surcharge as well as any other fines resulting from an excess of points on their record.

You can turn to a traffic lawyer NJ for assistance and help if you have been charged with a New Jersey traffic offense. A skilled traffic ticket attorney at Moldovan Law Firm has extensive experience representing clients charged with traffic offenses in New Jersey and can help you to find your way through NJ’s legal system and minimize the consequences.