Street Racing Attorney

Serving Wyoming & South Dakota

If you’re facing charges for street racing in Wyoming or South Dakota, the stakes are high. Beyond the immediate fines and potential jail time, a conviction can leave you with a criminal record, raise your insurance rates, and even cost you your driver’s license. At Just Criminal Law, our experienced street racing lawyer understands the serious nature of these cases and is dedicated to defending your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Street racing is often portrayed in movies as thrilling or harmless, but in real life, it’s considered a serious traffic offense — sometimes even a felony, depending on the circumstances. Whether you were allegedly racing on a highway, participating in a local drag event, or simply caught speeding in a manner police interpret as racing, you need a strong legal defense.

Call (307) 300-2240 to schedule a confidential appointment.

Wyoming Street Racing Laws & Penalties

Under Wyoming Statutes § 31-5-1101, street racing — often called “speed contests” or “drag racing” — is prohibited on all public roads. The law defines street racing as the operation of two or more vehicles in competition with one another or in an attempt to outdistance another vehicle, regardless of whether a formal race was organized.

Penalties for Street Racing in Wyoming

Street racing in Wyoming is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but the penalties can escalate depending on the situation. Here’s what you may face if convicted:

First Offense:

• Fines up to $200
• Up to 6 months in jail
• Possible license suspension or revocation
• Increased insurance premiums

Repeat Offenses:

• Higher fines and longer jail sentences
• Extended license suspension
• Mandatory community service or driving courses

Aggravating Circumstances

If your alleged racing caused an accident, injury, or property damage, prosecutors may elevate the charge to reckless driving or even vehicular assault, which carry harsher penalties. Additionally, if drugs or alcohol were involved, DUI charges may also be added — significantly increasing the potential consequences.

Our Gillette street racing lawyer from Just Criminal Law can challenge the evidence against you, question police procedures, and work to have your charges reduced or dismissed.

South Dakota Street Racing Laws & Penalties

South Dakota takes a similarly strict stance on street racing. Under South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-24-1, engaging in any kind of speed contest, drag race, or acceleration competition on public roads is considered reckless driving — a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Penalties for Street Racing in South Dakota

If you’re charged with street racing in South Dakota, you may face:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fines up to $2,000
• Driver’s license suspension for up to 1 year
• Vehicle impoundment in certain cases
• Significant increases in car insurance premiums

Enhanced Penalties

If street racing results in serious bodily injury or death, the offense can escalate to a felony, carrying possible prison time and a permanent criminal record. South Dakota law also allows police to seize vehicles used in street racing, particularly for repeat offenders or cases involving reckless endangerment.

Because South Dakota’s laws classify racing as reckless driving, the long-term consequences extend beyond just fines — you could face lasting damage to your reputation, employability, and freedom to drive.

How Just Criminal Law Can Help

A street racing charge doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. With our Gillette street racing lawyer, you have options. Just Criminal Law provides strategic defense for clients throughout Wyoming and South Dakota, working to minimize the penalties or secure a complete dismissal when possible.

Our Defense Strategies May Include:

• Challenging the evidence: We’ll review radar readings, dashcam footage, and officer testimony to find inconsistencies.
• Questioning intent: Prosecutors must prove you were knowingly engaged in a “race.” Simply driving fast doesn’t always meet this standard.
• Negotiating plea deals: In some cases, we can reduce a racing charge to a lesser traffic offense, avoiding a criminal record.
• Protecting your license: We work to preserve your driving privileges and prevent unnecessary suspensions.

At Just Criminal Law, we know how stressful it can be to face criminal traffic charges. Our legal team provides aggressive representation and clear guidance every step of the way.

FAQs About Street Racing in WY & SD

Can I go to jail for street racing in Wyoming or South Dakota?

Yes. Street racing is a misdemeanor offense in both states and can result in jail time, especially for repeat offenders or cases involving injury or property damage.

Will my driver’s license be suspended?

Most likely. Both Wyoming and South Dakota allow the court to suspend or revoke your license if you’re convicted of street racing.

What if I wasn’t actually racing but just speeding?

If you were not engaged in a competitive event, your lawyer may be able to argue that the charge should be reduced to a simple speeding violation — which carries lighter penalties.

Can I fight a street racing ticket on my own?

While you can represent yourself, the legal and procedural complexities make it risky. Our street racing lawyer can analyze the evidence, challenge police reports, and present a strong defense on your behalf.

Will a street racing conviction show up on my record?

Yes. It can appear as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity. This can affect job opportunities, insurance rates, and future background checks.

Why Choose Just Criminal Law?

• Experience in traffic and criminal defense: Our attorneys are deeply familiar with local courts in both Wyoming and South Dakota.
• Personalized legal strategy: Every case is unique — we tailor our approach to your specific situation and goals.
• Commitment to protecting your future: We fight not only to beat your current charge but to safeguard your long-term record and driving rights.
• Responsive and client-focused: You’ll always know where your case stands and have direct access to your lawyer when you need answers.

Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing repeat charges, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

Contact Just Criminal Law to get started on your defense.