Am I allowed to organize an illegal car race if no other road users are endangered?
June 24, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Hildegard Falk
Dear lawyer,
My name is Marcus Strauss and I have a question regarding traffic law. I am a passionate driver and have heard that in some cases illegal car races are being organized. I am wondering if it is allowed to organize such a race if no other road users are put in danger.
I am aware that illegal car races are against the law and can have serious consequences. However, the idea of testing my driving skills and competing against other drivers fascinates me. I would of course organize the race in a remote location where no other road users are endangered.
Nevertheless, I am worried that I may be breaking the law by doing so and could potentially face criminal charges. Therefore, I would like to know from you if it is allowed under these circumstances to organize such a race, as long as no other road users are put in danger.
If this is not allowed, I would like to know if there are alternative ways to test my driving skills in a safe environment without breaking the law.
I thank you in advance for your response and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Marcus Strauss
Dear Mr. Strauss,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding traffic law concerning illegal street racing. It is good that you are informing yourself about the legal consequences before participating in such activities.
First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that illegal street racing in Germany is both punishable by law and a regulatory offense, regardless of whether other road users are endangered or not. According to § 315d of the German Criminal Code (StGB), participating in an illegal street race is punishable by imprisonment of up to two years or a fine. Furthermore, participating in an illegal street race can also result in the revocation of your driver's license.
Even if you organize the race in a remote location where no other road users are endangered, it is still not allowed. The legislation does not allow any leeway in this regard. Illegal street racing is fundamentally prohibited and will be consistently prosecuted. If you participate in such a race and are caught, you can expect serious legal consequences.
If you still want to test your driving skills in a safe environment without breaking the law, there are various legal options available. For example, you can participate in organized motorsport events on closed race tracks where all safety measures are in place. Here, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills within the confines of the law and compete with other drivers.
I hope this response has been helpful to you and I am available for any further questions you may have. Please remember that it is important to always abide by the applicable laws and not support any illegal activities.
Sincerely,
Hildegard Falk
Traffic Law Attorney
