Pennsylvania outlaws racing, drifting
Fast & Furious enthusiasts will have to get their fill from the big screen now. Racing became illegal in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, Sept. 16.
Unsanctioned street racing, drag racing and drifting a vehicle became illegal in the state under Act 103 of 2024, which took effect earlier this month, and outlaws and establishes penalties for the actions.
The act defines racing and drag racing as vehicles accelerating to a given destination in an attempt to outdistance each other. It specifies drag racing as vehicles racing side-by-side.
“I’m sure it exists (in the county), but I can’t say we’ve had issues at this point,” said District Attorney Richard Goldinger about charges related to racing.
The act also outlawed drifting and defined it as turning a vehicle “in an attempt to make the rear wheel or wheels of the vehicle lose traction and create a controlled or uncontrolled skid sideways.”
Violating the racing law constitutes a summary offense and $500 fine for the first offense, while the drifting law constitutes a summary offense and $250 fine.
Subsequent offenses of the laws warrant a $2,000 fine, up to six months in prison and possible impoundment of the vehicle involved for up to six months.
Those organizing racing or drifting events can also be fined up to $1,000 for each vehicle.
The law applies to roadways, which are standard roads and highways, and trafficways, which are public parking lots and alleys.
Local authorities may issue special permits to allow the activities.
