In recent years, Birmingham has witnessed a disturbing trend: an increase in exhibition driving and street racing. These reckless behaviors not only endanger the lives of those directly involved but also put innocent bystanders at grave risk. Birmingham has come together to enact new measures to counter this growing trend, but they have not been able to altogether stop the practice and bring peace back to the streets of the city.
What is Exhibition Driving and Why is it Dangerous?
Exhibition driving includes a range of high-risk maneuvers performed by drivers looking to showcase their skills or simply gain attention. These actions can vary from dramatic burnouts in intersections and parking lots, drifting and high-speed races between multiple vehicles. These pop-up-like events often draw large crowds that encourage the behavior, but also lead to an increased amount of danger. Several people have even died from being near the drivers when they begin their exhibition.
Superficial Exhibition Maneuvers: Burnouts & Drifting
Burnouts and drifting are perhaps the most visible forms of exhibition driving. Burnouts involve spinning the car’s wheels while stationary, creating plumes of smoke and screeching noises. Drifting, on the other hand, is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers to cause the vehicle to slide sideways. Both maneuvers are not only disruptive but also highly dangerous. They reduce vehicle control, increase the risk of losing control, and can lead to severe accidents.
Excessive Speed
Excessive speeding is another common facet of exhibition driving. Vehicles traveling at speeds far beyond the legal limit significantly increase the likelihood of crashes. High speeds reduce the driver’s ability to react to sudden obstacles and increase the severity of collisions, making accidents more deadly. Driving at high speeds can also make it difficult for those not involved in this display to stay safely out of the fray; with less reaction time for both parties, the chances of a wreck increase exponentially.
Multi-Vehicle Racing
Street racing involves multiple vehicles competing against each other on public roads. This activity is particularly perilous due to the combination of high speeds and close proximity between vehicles. It also poses a severe risk to other drivers and pedestrians who are not involved in the race but may be caught in the crossfire. The roads being raced on are not typically built for that type of driving, putting all drivers involved in even more danger. Public streets are created for slow moving passenger vehicles in mind, while also created to accommodate utilities and pedestrians. They lack the necessary angles and curves that allow race cars to perform.
The Rise of Exhibition Driving in Birmingham
Birmingham has recently seen a worrying rise in exhibition driving incidents. As more drivers engage in these dangerous behaviors, the city’s roads become increasingly hazardous. This rise is partly due to social media and video-sharing platforms where drivers showcase their reckless maneuvers, often encouraging others to follow suit. The result is a growing culture of risky driving that endangers everyone on the road. Some measures have already been taken to try and curb exhibition driving, but the problem has not been altogether solved.
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Potential Consequences of an Exhibition Driving Accident
Accidents caused by exhibition driving can have severe consequences, both for the individuals involved and for those caught in the aftermath. Pedestrian bystanders and other drivers alike are at risk.
Common Physical Injuries After an Accident
Victims of exhibition driving accidents can suffer a range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-threatening conditions. Common injuries include:
Whiplash: Caused by sudden jerks during a collision, leading to neck pain and stiffness.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Resulting from the impact of a crash.
Head and Brain Injuries: Such as concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Internal Injuries: Including damage to organs or internal bleeding.
Burns: Burns caused by the ignition of the vehicle during a wreck.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Any injuries caused by damage to the spinal cord that can cause nerve damage or paralyzation.
Wrongful Death: Wrecks or pedestrian injury leading to wrongful death.
In addition to physical injuries, victims may experience emotional trauma and financial strain due to medical expenses and lost wages.
If you are injured in an accident caused by an exhibition driver, it’s crucial to understand your legal options. Pursuing a claim can help you recover damages for your injuries and other losses. If you think you have a personal injury claim against a negligent driver, it is best to call a reputable personal injury firm like Wettermark Keith to examine your circumstances.
We proudly offer a free consultation to help you understand your legal options and determine the best course of action for pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Legal Options if You Are Hit By An Exhibition Driver
Frequently Asked Questions
If you witness exhibition driving, it’s important to report it to local law enforcement. Provide them with as much detail as possible, including the location, description of the vehicles, and any other relevant information.
Yes, exhibition driving is illegal in Alabama and can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. Participating in such activities can also lead to additional charges if it results in an accident.
In Alabama, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within this timeframe.
There is an ordinance in place that punishes spectators of exhibition driving events in Birmingham. The ordinance places penalties of $500 and up to 180 days in jail for violating the law.
Yes, there is a difference between exhibition driving and street racing, though both are illegal and dangerous activities typically conducted on public roads.
Street Racing involves two or more vehicles racing against each other to determine who is faster. This is usually done in a competitive context, with drivers pushing their vehicles to high speeds, often with no regard for traffic laws, safety, or public property. Street racing is primarily focused on speed and competition.
Exhibition Driving, on the other hand, refers to the act of showing off driving skills or the performance capabilities of a vehicle through maneuvers like burnouts, drifting, donuts, or other stunts. The goal of exhibition driving is often to impress spectators rather than to compete in a race. While it might not involve direct competition like street racing, it is still dangerous and illegal because it often takes place on public roads and can endanger the driver, spectators, and bystanders.
Why Choose Wettermark Keith for Your Exhibition Driving Accident Claim
At Wettermark Keith, our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims. With a deep understanding of Alabama law and a commitment to client success, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Our compassionate approach means we are with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to the resolution of your case. Let us help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life. We have been serving our clients for over 20 years and we’ll use that experience to go to work for you. While most cases end in a settlement, if the insurance companies won’t give you a fair amount we will gladly go to court for you to get you the compensation you need.
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